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The end of an era is coming, and it may be game over for the physical video game medium.
Sony, owner of the popular console PlayStation, has announced plans to stop producing physical copies of their games by 2028.
The decision had an impact on the local gaming business.
“It used to feel more like ‘for the fans’, whereas now, it just, you know, feels like the most basic thing. That’s what they’re focused on and it’s a shame because I think for gamers, even from yesterday and today, there’s a passion for gaming,” said Umair Khan, owner and operator of Hi-Tech Gametraders.
Gametraders is a local shop in Saskatoon that has been operating since 1998.
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Khan said other game stores are starting to focus more on other merchandise and away from video games. He said he should probably do the same.
“Pokémon trading cards and Funko Pops and Plush and you know, endless types of collectibles and merchandise. So, you know, so for us… hopefully talking like we’re going to be OK. But our bread and butter is still our video games – that’s the main reason people know us, that’s the main reason people come to us.”
Buying a game online versus buying a physical copy does have its differences. When you buy a game online, you don’t actually own the game, but rather a license to use it, so the company can remove it.
“We’ve just seen this with films from Sony through the PlayStation Store. I believe there are about 550 films that have just been delisted, so even if you’ve spent your money on that film, you know whether it’s $8 or $15 or whatever… those films are being removed now, so you can’t have that film anymore and you don’t get a refund on that film either,” Khan said.
He said Sony’s decision reflected the direction of the gaming industry, but he questioned whether it was the right move.
“We’ve seen that Xbox has really moved to the digital side… Xbox has also been in an unstable state. They haven’t had success in this generation and they’ve also made a lot of changes with their company. And that’s what really surprised me about Sony’s decision.”
Khan said customers were also unhappy with the changes.
“Even today, I had four or five conversations. Everyone was just… disappointed, they were wondering, ‘What is Sony doing?'” Khan said.
Watch the video above to find out more about the impact Sony’s decision will have.
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