Sony's shift to an all-digital future for PlayStation has sparked debate about ownership, with one reader proposing that digital games should come with a visible expiry date. The reader, known as freeway 77, argues that consumers deserve to know how long they can expect to access their purchases, comparing digital games to perishable supermarket items with a 'use by' date.
Sony's all-digital announcement and GTA 6 timing
The reader suggests that Sony may have timed its announcement to coincide with the news that Grand Theft Auto 6 would launch as a digital-only title, hoping to soften the blow. They note that if GTA 6 had not been delayed, the digital-only news might have reached gamers even sooner. The reader expresses frustration that gamers are being pushed toward a future where they cannot physically own the games they buy, a trend that has been building for years.
The problem with digital ownership
Unlike physical media, digital purchases can be revoked or removed from storefronts at any time, with no guarantee of long-term access. The reader points out that small print often absolves companies of responsibility, leaving consumers with no legal recourse. They argue that a clear, prominent expiry date on digital games would empower buyers to make informed decisions about whether a purchase is worth their money.
A proposal for consumer protection
Freeway 77 proposes that digital games should display a 'use by' date in large, visible text—not buried in terms and conditions. This would guarantee that the game remains playable at least until that date, giving consumers a baseline expectation. The reader acknowledges that this might seem petty, but believes it provides essential knowledge and choice. They predict that in 25 years, future gamers will complain about losing access to their favourite titles, and this measure could help them understand the limitations of digital libraries.
Implications for future generations
The reader speculates that a new generation of gamers might emerge who do not build extensive back catalogues, simply because they lack the time or money to invest in games that may disappear. This could mirror the early 1990s, when gaming was more transient. The reader concludes with a poignant remark: 'Soon a game will not be for life, it will be just for Christmas.'
The reader's feature does not necessarily represent the views of GameCentral or Metro. Readers can submit their own 500-600 word features to gamecentral@metro.co.uk.
