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34% of PS5 discs and 50% of Xbox Series X discs are junk without a download, research finds: “It’s deliberately undermining the value of physical releases”
Research cited by GamesRadar+ suggests that a significant share of current-generation console game discs cannot provide a complete, playable game without downloading additional data. The findings raise concerns for buyers who expect physical copies to remain usable if digital storefronts, servers or internet access are unavailable, potentially weakening the preservation value of disc releases.
The research found that 34% of PlayStation 5 discs and 50% of Xbox Series X discs were effectively incomplete without a download. Critics argue that this practice deliberately diminishes the value of physical editions, as discs may function mainly as installation media or proof of purchase rather than self-contained games. The figures highlight a wider tension between publishers’ reliance on post-release updates and consumers’ expectations of ownership.
In short
- Many current-gen game discs need downloads to work fully.
- Half of surveyed Xbox Series X discs were affected.
- The issue raises concerns about long-term game preservation.
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The case for
Physical releases are often bought for lasting access, resale and preservation, so a disc that needs a download to become playable may not meet reasonable expectations of ownership. If storefronts or servers later disappear, or a buyer lacks reliable internet, the game could become inaccessible; publishers should make clear what the disc contains and preserve an offline playable version where feasible.
The case against
Modern games can be too large or technically complex to fit in a complete, current state on a disc, and downloads let publishers deliver patches, fixes and ongoing support. A disc can still provide useful access and resale value even when it is not self-contained, provided buyers are told what it includes and can obtain the required data. The reported figures also do not by themselves show deliberate intent to undermine physical releases.
Explained simply
Modern console games are often updated after release, so a disc may contain only part of the data needed to play. The rest can require an internet connection and a download from the publisher’s servers.
This matters to people who buy discs expecting to play without relying on online services. If a game needs missing files from a server, access could become harder if that service closes or the player has no internet connection.
Publishers use downloads to deliver large games and updates, while some buyers value discs as lasting, usable copies. The debate is about what a physical game purchase should provide and how well games can be preserved over time.