It is pretty obvious that we are are experiencing an evolution of technology. Everything is becoming less physical and more cloud based. Microsoft announced that its new version of its Xbox one console will be cloud based, meaning no more physical disks. Their new service will be called "Project xCloud". Google is also offering a cloud gaming service called Stadia followed by amazon (Of course). This is very similar to say streaming movies off of hulu, HBO and Netflix. These companies did away with the need for a physical disk. That is, for the most part!
Ultrafast internet connections and falling memory prices have now made it possible for gamers to never set foot in a store or await a disc in the mail. But will this be feasible? After all, hard disks have always dominated from the start. Studies have shown that not everyone is adopting the cloud based approach. Though significantly less that previous years, people are still buying physical music CDs. CDs still bring in over 700 million in revenue, which personally shocks me because where do you even get a radio anymore? Most new cars are being made WITHOUT CD players, so where are these people using their CDs?
With this being said I think game/console makers need to proceed with caution because gamers tend to be very nostalgic and you don't wanna phase out something they completely enjoy! Especially when Sony isn't fully on board yet.
I chose this article because I enjoy video games. I think it is a fun experience and part of the fun is having something tangible. I think completely phasing out physical copies with cut your audience in half, especially with Sony unable to commit, some people can't break habits and aren't ready for that next step even if it is inevitable!
Article by: Dan Gallegher April 23, 2019 @ 7am
Link:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-slow-rise-for-cloud-gaming-11556017203
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