- A new report suggests that discs cost 15% of a game’s retail price to the companies.
- That means it costs them a bit over $10 for a AAA game that retails for $70.
- Digital is more convenient and cost-effective, as they get to keep everything themselves.
Physical games are on the decline, with digital taking up most of the sales this year. Sony has been the biggest advocate for a no-physical future since it announced that all its games will be digital releases starting in 2028.
While we already know that higher cost is associated with physical media based on the materials and the process required to make them, a new report suggests that physical games cost around 15% of the retail price.
Why it matters: In a time when inflation is at its peak and AAA game development has humongous budgets, companies are looking for as many cost-cutting measures as possible, and physical media is the sacrificial lamb.
The Game File reports that physical games cost 15% of a game’s retail price. So, say a standard AAA title costs $70, companies are paying $10 for the disc. Also, this doesn’t include shipping, retailer fees, and other things.
Whereas with digital, they just sell a license to the players and get to keep everything for themselves, as they’re just selling them on their own storefronts. So, it is quite apparent why this transition is now happening.
Additionally, reports indicate that physical sales are at their worst point ever, while digital sales are booming. Customers have voiced their concerns, but stats clearly suggest that they prefer the accessibility of digital media.
What are your thoughts on physical games costing 15% of the retail price? What media do you prefer? Let us know your opinions in the comments or join the discussion at the official Tech4Gamers Forum.
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News Reporter
Abdullah is an avid gamer who primarily plays single-player titles. If you can’t find him anywhere, he’ll probably be at his desk playing The Witcher 3 for the millionth time. When he isn’t playing games, he’s either reading or writing about them.
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