Downloading Games Vs. Buying From Retail Shops

By Author: cassie cassie
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There’s a debate going on for some time now as to whether one should stick to the classic practices of acquiring games from retails shops or start downloading games from online stores. Opinions are mostly divided and we will try and go through the pros and cons of both.

As all major console developers have created their own online stores, there seems to be a push towards digital downloads from online stores. The advantages of downloading games from online stores are quite obvious.

First of all, when downloading games, prices should be lower since a game producer would cut the costs of manufacturing the physical storage unit for the game. When using the services of online stores you also remove the added costs that retail shops would naturally place. Then there are the convenience factors. Instead of making the trip to retail shops, you can simply log in to online stores and start downloading games, simple as that. Another strong point for downloading games from online stores is that they will never run out of a game. No more disappointing moments when it turns ...
... out that retail shops no longer stock that best-seller.

Secondly, when downloading games, you simply have them stored on a hard drive. No more issues with scratched discs or lost games as they are all in one place. And then you’ll encounter marketing practices from online stores that will promote special memberships, offers or discounts when downloading games.

One of the major downsides of downloading games is that you don’t actually own the game. It is more like you gain access to it. What’s wrong with that, one would ask. For starters, you can not sell or trade games from online stores. Moreover, if you opt for downloading games, you will probably have to invest more in your storage capabilities.

On the other spectrum of the debate you have retail shops. Where retail shops have the advantage is that they offer the physical experience of actually stepping inside the place. There are many who value the experience of going to their favorite retail shops and exploring through bundles of games. This experience is priceless to some and is simply not there with online stores. Moreover, retail shops can also bring added value by employing knowledgeable and helpful staff that might aid you with potential purchases. Another benefit that retail shops can offer is a special gaming place where gamers can get together and have a blast. Such practices can turn retail shops into social centers where gamers can simply hang around and have fun. Retail shops can also provide potential buyers with the opportunity of trying out a game before purchasing it. Finally, how retail shops can still make a bang for the buck is by implementing some small membership fees for gamers in order to use their facilities. Add to this some special offers, promotions and other potential gifts and retail shops might very well end up establishing communities of loyal gamers.

As downloading games from online stores seems to have become the trend, retail shops have to figure out more ways through which to remain competitive. In the end, such competition can only be beneficial to the gamer.

Cassie Smith is a copywriter for more than 10 years. She love play and to write on online games. In this article, she offers some tips to acquiring games from retails shops or start downloading games from online stores.