PS5 Physical Games: Blank Blu-Rays and Sony’s Fail?

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There’s been plenty of talk regarding Game Key Cards for the Switch 2, and here are two points that might justify this approach: firstly, traditional cartridges can be quite pricey, and secondly, it’s commendable that Nintendo has been transparent about the entire situation.

The Dark Ages and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, are marketed physically but essentially function like digital-only titles due to their small disk sizes. The DOOM game comes with only 85MB on its Blu-ray disc, while Indiana Jones has just 20GB. Consequently, you’ll need a substantial download for both games to play them properly.

It’s widely understood and accepted that traditional physical games are losing their appeal, as indicated by a recent UK study showing only 4% of the nation’s gaming industry expenditure comes from boxed software sales. In other words, this is simply the current state of affairs.

However, if a publisher decides to distribute a physical version, it’s essential that they incorporate a playable version of the game directly onto the Blu-ray disc.

It’s important to clarify our stance: We are well aware that contemporary game development involves updates post-release, as developers work tirelessly to rectify issues and introduce enhancements even after the game has been manufactured. This article is not intended as criticism regarding the presence of day one patches.

Instead, let’s discuss the issue with Bethesda’s recent practice. Essentially, their Blu-ray discs work as keys for digital downloads, allowing access to specific games. This approach differs from typical patches or updates because it feels like a departure from what consumers usually expect when buying boxed games, giving off an impression of hostility towards those expectations.

There’s simply no justification for it: Blu-ray discs barely cost anything, so if a publisher chooses to sell a physical copy of their game, it’s evident that they believe there’s worth in keeping their product available in stores.

From a fan’s perspective, it’s not hard to see why Nintendo might justify the cost of their cartridges, given the potential expenses involved in manufacturing them. It seems that publishers are limited to 64GB options when it comes to these cartridges, which could explain the recent surge in Game Key Cards.

However, unlike other systems, the storage limitations that exist elsewhere do not hold true for the PlayStation 5. A single Blu-ray disc in this device can accommodate as much as 100GB of data at an exceptionally low production cost.

Microsoft’s Gaming Lead Phil Spencer, in charge of affiliates such as Bethesda, has often advocated for “industry-wide game preservation” in the past. However, it remains unclear how distributing empty game discs contributes to realizing this goal.

Essentially, if Sony were to shut down their servers at some point, your games DOOM: The Dark Ages and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle would no longer install. It might not matter to you, but it shouldn’t even be a question – these games should have always been on the discs themselves.

Let’s revisit the Game Key Cards for the Switch 2 once more: at least the information is straightforward. Upon examining the packaging of these games, you’ll notice that they explicitly mention that you must download the software if you buy a physical game cartridge.

As a dedicated gamer and fan, I can’t help but feel frustrated when I see the “Internet Required” disclaimer on Bethesda’s latest titles. It’s like purchasing a game only to find out it’s more of a digital coaster than an experience I can truly enjoy. How is this acceptable in any way?

To make things perfectly clear, Sony, being the manufacturer of PlayStation, bears responsibility for this situation. Although they may not engage in the practice themselves with their own software, they should exert influence on third-party developers like Bethesda. They should either provide a fully playable game on the Blu-ray disc or clearly articulate what is actually being offered. It’s unacceptable to sell customers a nearly empty disc without transparent disclosure of its contents.

It’s clear that times are evolving, and industries progress with them. We’ve always been open to digital distribution, updates, and other contemporary developments. However, if you’re offering a physical game, please offer a complete physical product. This ambiguous strategy appears disrespectful, and the lack of clear communication about it only exacerbates the issue for consumers.

Do you have thoughts on Bethesda’s practice of shipping disc-less PS5 games? Should Sony intervene, and if so, how? Or is this insignificant due to waning importance of boxed games today? Here are my views:

Sony might want to address the shift towards disc-less publishing, especially as it affects the user experience. One possible solution could be ensuring that digital copies of these games are included for purchasers of physical editions, or providing incentives for physical purchases. However, I also acknowledge that boxed games may not hold much importance in today’s digital era.

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2025-05-12 17:15