Online purchase vs. physical games: Advantages and disadvantages of gaming platforms like Steam

There has been a significant shift in the world of gaming in recent years. While physical games were the norm for a long time, online gaming platforms like Steam have now had a huge impact on the way gamers source their games. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of these platforms compared to the traditional purchase of physical games? In this article, we take a look at the different aspects and try to find out whether the advantages of buying online outweigh the disadvantages.

Advantages of Steam & Co.

There are numerous advantages to using Steam and its ilk.

Convenience and accessibility

One undeniable advantage of online gaming platforms like Steam is the unbeatable convenience they offer. With just a few clicks, gamers can purchase and download a wide range of games right from home. Payment is also straightforward and even possible without a credit card via Steam card.

There is no need to physically go to a shop or wait for deliveries. This is especially beneficial for gamers who live in remote areas or have little time to visit shops.

Immediate access and updates

Another big plus is the instant access to the game. After purchase, the game can usually be downloaded and played immediately without having to wait for physical media or deliveries. In addition, online platforms like Steam also allow for regular updates and patches to fix bugs and improve the gaming experience. This quick access and the ability to always be up to date is definitely a big plus for online purchases.

Variety of offers and discounts

Online gaming platforms are known for their frequent sales promotions, discounts and bundle offers. This allows gamers to purchase a wide range of games at discounted prices. Especially in the big annual sales promotions like the Steam Summer Sale, players can find real bargains. In comparison, physical games rarely offer such generous deals, and when they do, they are often limited to a restricted selection.

Space savings and environmental considerations

An often overlooked benefit of buying online is the space it saves. Physical games take up space on the shelf or living room table, while digital copies are stored on the hard drive or in the cloud. This is especially advantageous for gamers who have limited space or want to live minimalistically. In addition, online purchases contribute to environmental protection by reducing the need for physical packaging and transport.

Disadvantages of online gaming platforms

Despite the numerous advantages of buying online, there are also a few disadvantages that cannot be ignored.

Loss of the collectible aesthetic

One of the most notable is the loss of the aesthetic experience of physical games. Collectors often appreciate the beauty of game packaging, artbooks and other physical extras. This aesthetic aspect is unfortunately lost when buying digital copies. The second-hand market also falls away with purely digital software.

Dependence on online servers

A potential risk of buying online is the dependence on the platform's servers. If the servers go down or the platform is closed, players could lose access to their purchased games. This is a scenario that is less likely with physical games. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasise that many online platforms are now taking measures to counteract these risks, for example through offline modes.

Conclusion: A new era of gaming

It can be said that online gaming platforms such as Steam undoubtedly offer a wealth of benefits that outweigh the traditional purchase of physical games. The convenience, instant access, discounts and environmental considerations make online purchasing an attractive option for modern gamers. However, we must not forget that the loss of the collectible aesthetic and the potential dependence on online servers are some drawbacks that need to be considered.

In an increasingly digital world of gaming, online gaming platforms mark a shift in the way players source their games. However, it is important to stress that the choice between buying online and physical games ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities. For some, the convenience and variety of online platforms will be the deciding factor, while others will value the aesthetic experience and physical collectibles.