Xbox has revealed plans to allow players to convert their physical game discs into digital licenses. This feature, which is beginning with Xbox Insider members, aims to safeguard players' game collections in an increasingly digital future.
The announcement was made during Microsoft's Gamescom broadcast by Xbox's Jason Ronald, who confirmed the company's efforts to future-proof physical games. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma later elaborated on Twitter, stating that the service will initially support "thousands" of titles across Xbox history, with plans to expand the library over time. Sharma emphasized the sentimental and historical value of physical game collections, noting that "Your physical game library is more than a collection of discs. It holds years of memories and stories worth preserving."
This move comes at a time when the long-term viability of physical game ownership faces increasing uncertainty across the industry. While Sony has been perceived as leaning away from physical media for its PlayStation consoles, Xbox's new initiative offers a potential solution for players invested in their disc-based libraries.