Gamers Still Prefer Physical Discs

New study shows strong interest in game discs due to used sales.

July 6, 2010

The majority of gamers still prefer to purchase their games on physical discs, according to a new study done by UK media research firm Ipsos MORI.

The study conducted in May, which surveyed over 1000 people between the ages of 15 to 55 (of which 577 were owners of next gen consoles - Wii, PS3, Xbox 360), showed that 64% still prefer to purchase games on physical discs. 25% say they prefer digital downloads while 11% said they had no preference. Other forms of media, newspapers, films, and music, showed higher interest in digital preference.

Ian Bramley, Senior Director at Ipsos MORI, told IGN the used game market is likely the cause of gamers choosing discs over downloads.

"The preference for physical discs amongst next gen gamers, despite the high levels of interest for digital models, reflects the value gamers derive from the second-hand resale market which likely contributes to holding up the preference for physical - this is unlike the music and film markets," Bramley said.

- Ipsos MediaCT

"Also the physical disc has a long and well established history in the games market which is deep mindset to change, particularly when building a physical collection and in-store browsing are important to gamers, as are fears of losing digital versions."

Have you moved on from physical game discs? Sound off in the comments below. MovieMiguel.com