The decline in the consumption of physical video games has been dramatic since the pandemic period, and it is a fact that the majority of titles are consumed digitally. The disc-based business model is in crisis, leading to consideration of a short-term future with consoles that only run digital-format video games. In the case of Microsoft, they already have the Xbox Series S, but a leak anticipated a model of Xbox Series X without a disc drive. However, it seems that those who prefer discs will still be covered, at least for the remainder of this generation.
Microsoft would release a disc drive for Xbox Series X|S
During his participation in the Xbox Era podcast (via Game Pass Tracker on Twitter | X), the renowned insider Shpeshal Nick revealed that Microsoft plans to release a disc drive for those who prefer to run their video games on current-generation consoles. Initially, the rumor seems to suggest that the redesign of the Xbox Series X for 2024 is real and that this console will come from the factory without a Blu-ray drive. Still, considering that physical game sales are still in the millions and there is a niche to address, Microsoft would make the same decision as Sony in this case.
[tweet]https://twitter.com/gamepasstracker/status/1713668908354298018[/tweet]
The new model of Xbox Series X would be released in 2024 and would be digital-only
Regarding this, it is believed that this disc drive will not only be compatible with the new Xbox Series X but also with the Xbox Series S, offering players the option to enjoy physical titles regardless of which of the two models they have. Currently, the Xbox Series X can read discs, but it is thought that the launch of the new model will mean the end of its availability in the market. On the other hand, the Xbox Series S received a new black model with a 1 TB capacity, so we would be facing a new Xbox Series X|S line for the coming years, with the added benefit of having a disc drive that can be acquired separately.
The rumor comes days after Sony revealed the new design of the PlayStation 5 highlighting the digital model to which a disc drive can be added, which will be sold by the Japanese company at a later date. According to what we inform you at this moment, Xbox would take the same path, trying to cater to the niche of users who still prefer discs.
Lastly, recently, it has been reported that some chains decided not to sell more Xbox video games in physical format, which reflects the decline of the format in general, but also the preference for acquiring games for Microsofts console in digital, although the company would not leave behind those who want to continue with their discs. In that regard, ]a GameStop executive stated that disc drives should be mandatory in consoles, and recently Ubisoft committed to continuing to support the physical format even though it recognizes that it is in decline.
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