Tesco, the massive UK supermarket chain, recently revealed its plans to completely cease the stocking of video games across all its 2,800 stores. This move is seen as a contributing factor to the ongoing decline of physical software sales. As reported by Games Industry.biz, the process of phasing out boxed PlayStation, Nintendo, and Xbox games has already begun and will continue until the existing stock is depleted. Hence, once the current inventory is sold out, Tesco will no longer offer video games.
The company attributes its decision to a shift “towards digital entertainment.” While Tesco will continue to provide digital wallet top-ups for platforms like the PS Store, this will mark the extent of its in-store video game offerings. It is worth noting that in the UK, a significant majority of the latest game releases, including popular titles like Diablo 4, Final Fantasy 16, Street Fighter 6, and F1 23, were purchased digitally, accounting for 82% of sales, with only 18% sold through retail outlets. If you’re into gaming, consider pairing your digital purchases with the best gaming mouse for an enhanced experience!
Tesco wants to stop selling physical copies of games?
Though Tesco’s decision was somewhat expected, it is likely to accelerate the ongoing trend of transitioning to digital media, a shift that is already gaining momentum. While physical releases may not vanish entirely in the near future, it is evident that their relevance is diminishing, and digital-only launches, such as the case with major titles like Alan Wake 2, will likely become more common moving forward. Therefore, if you’re interested in video game discounts, it might be wise to check your local Tesco store as they clear out their remaining inventory.
Imagine a trip down memory lane to the early 2000s, where gaming meant colorful boxes lining store shelves, and choosing a game was a tactile experience. But today, the gaming landscape has transformed entirely. With digital downloads, you can access the latest games from the comfort of your home. No more dealing with scratched discs or waiting in line for midnight releases – it’s all about convenience and accessibility.
According to GamesIndustry.biz, the network, which operates more than 2800 outlets in the UK, will stop selling boxed games once its current inventory is gone.
The shift “towards digital entertainment” among the chain’s customers, according to the company’s official website, was a key consideration.
This announcement has been made possible by significant price reductions on video game merchandise across the board at Tesco stores this year.
According to reports, the company offered popular titles like Deathloop and Call of Duty: Vanguard for as little as £5.
Following the significant discounts on Xbox One and Nintendo Switch hardware earlier in the month, software costs were reduced. Among the first-party Switch titles that Tesco offered for about £20 were Super Mario 3D World and Pokémon Legends Arceus.
Prepaid cards redeemable for digital games on the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Nintendo eShop will continue to be offered by Tesco.
More often than cards for individual titles, physical copies of major digital releases like FIFA and Call of Duty are available.
As the digital world grows, traditional retail businesses will gradually withdraw and either close their doors or transition to an online business. The news is not unexpected and was anticipated.
Conclusion
Digital games offer a vast library of titles, available at your fingertips, 24/7. Your game collection becomes portable, stored on your device or cloud storage for on-the-go entertainment. And the best part? Digital platforms frequently offer enticing sales and discounts, making gaming more affordable for everyone.
Recently, Tesco, a major UK retailer, has made waves in the gaming industry with a bold announcement: they’re discontinuing physical game sales. As digital releases gain momentum, physical game sales have taken a hit. Other retailers may follow suit as the profit margins on physical games dwindle. The rise of digital sales is reshaping the gaming landscape, posing challenges for exclusive game retailers.
In a world where digital downloads reign supreme, the days of physical game copies may be numbered. Retailers will have to adapt or face tough decisions to stay relevant in the ever-evolving gaming market.