Game Disc Preservation Debate
A discussion around the decline of physical game media and the role of piracy in preserving video game history.
January 2013
Digital Game Sales Reached 13% of Total Sales
In 2013, digital sales accounted for only 13% of the total sales volume within the gaming industry. This figure is cited as a baseline for the industry's shift toward digital distribution.
Source ↗July 2026
Digital Game Sales Now Account for 78% of Industry Sales
The gaming industry has shifted overwhelmingly toward digital sales, with 78% of sales currently being digital. This statistic is presented in the context of the debate over physical media obsolescence.
Source ↗VGHF Director Frank Cifaldi states piracy is viable preservation method
Frank Cifaldi, director of the Video Game History Foundation, stated that piracy is the only viable method for game preservation. He criticized the industry for failing to provide legal solutions for archiving digital-only content.
Source ↗VGHF Director Frank Cifaldi comments on game preservation
Frank Cifaldi, director of the Video Game History Foundation, stated that piracy remains the only viable game preservation method. He also criticized the Entertainment Software Association for opposing efforts to reform digital copy protection laws.
Source ↗PlayStation stops manufacturing physical game discs
The author of the post discusses the decision by PlayStation to cease making physical game discs. This shift is framed within a broader debate concerning digital ownership rights.
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