Capcom says 'approximately 90%' of its sales are digital — and isn't worried about the death of physical games
Capcom has revealed that 90% of its unit sales are digital, so it's unlikely to be significantly impacted by the steady decline of the physical game market.
Capcom, a leading video game publisher, revealed that approximately 90% of its unit sales are digital, suggesting a strong likelihood that the company is not significantly affected by the diminishing physical game market. This news comes in light of Sony's plans to cease physical disc production by January 2028, a move that has caused controversy among PlayStation fans and industry associations like the Entertainment Retailers Association (ERA).
The ERA decried the decision as an example of prioritizing corporate convenience over consumer choice, arguing that the industry should embrace various methods of purchasing games instead of limiting choices. Capcom's CEO, Kim Bayley, expressed that digital distribution has significantly transformed gaming and is highly popular, but it should coexist with physical formats, not replace them.
He emphasized that consumers should have the freedom to choose their preferred purchasing method, and eliminating discs does not represent progress; instead, it diminishes choice, which is detrimental to gamers, retailers, and the industry's long-term health and preservation.
Sony's decision to end physical disc production has sparked speculation about the possibility of an all-digital PS6 console, and other companies like Xbox are reportedly developing disc-to-digital features. These developments point towards a future dominated by digital media, with analysts warning that Sony's move may pose a threat to the $7.2 billion second-hand video game market.
While some game companies are actively trying to preserve physical games, Capcom seems unconcerned about the implications at the moment. In response to a query about potential impacts during its latest investor Q&A, Capcom stated that 90% of its unit sales are digital, and it does not anticipate a significant impact in the short term.
The company also disclosed that Resident Evil Requiem has sold over eight million units, highlighting the series' ongoing popularity and steady growth in sales. However, the exact balance between digital and physical sales remains unclear. In addition to Capcom's stance, Sony has recently informed consumers about its decision to stop producing physical discs within two years, marking new labels on PS5 consoles.
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