Steam users have been bit with a massive warning that is unfortunately an issue for the gaming community as a whole.
In this digital age, accessing our content has never been quicker and easier whether it's video games, TV and film, music and much more. Digital media allows us to enjoy our content without leaving the home and can be instantly accessible with streaming platforms such as Netflix, and even the likes of Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.
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However, as beneficial as the digital age can be, the major caveat is the decline of physical media. There will always be those who want to see physical media die for there to be an all-digital age only, but as convenient as that might be, it would be very anti-consumer.
Big entertainment companies like to have control over the content we’ve “purchased” which is why we’re seeing an increase in digital-only consoles and a rise in digital media delivery. A prime example of this is when Ubisoft told gamers to get comfortable with not owning our content.
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The benefit of purchasing physical video games is that unless it’s an online game only, we will always have access to that content and it can never be taken away from corporations. It’s ours to keep forever unless we decide otherwise.
Plus, it’s always nice to see a shelf full of video games and movies, not to mention keeping retro consoles alive and well, allowing us to take a trip down memory lane in its purest form. This, I hope, will never die and we shouldn't allow it.
Over the years, there has been some confusion about whether we actually own digital content or if it's essentially being leased, despite paying the same RRP as a physical game or movie. Now, platforms such as Steam have taken steps to address that issue.
As reported by IGN, Steam is now giving customers a heads-up before buying a game. This overdue clarification follows a new law, ‘AB 2426’, signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom demanding that digital marketplaces let customers know what exactly they are paying for.
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The new law enforces digital marketplaces to inform customers in “plain language” that they’re paying for a licence that could expire at any time. What’s more, companies that violate this law will be liable for a false advertising fine.
In an article from Engadget, customers on Steam are now greeted with the following message before clicking the ‘Continue to payment’ button: “A purchase of a digital product grants a licence for the product on Steam.” This message appears to be rolling out worldwide.
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate digital content and most of my games are now digital. However, at least for the franchises I love, I always try to buy physical games so that it is mine to own.
It would be a very sad day if big corporations were to win and physical media would be no more. Let’s make sure that never happens.