Tim Willits on the future of physical games and digital sales

In brief

• Tim Willits, chief creative officer at Saber Interactive, says he no longer buys physical games and sees the shift toward digital sales.
• Sony is expected to end support for physical PlayStation games in 2028, which could have a major impact on the industry.
• Console prices continue to rise, which could affect accessibility for players.

GAME-scanner analysis

Tim Willits’ recent comments highlight an important shift in the games industry. The growth of digital sales is not just a trend, but a necessary adjustment to changing player preferences. Willits’ remark that he has not bought a physical game in quite some time reflects a broader phenomenon in which gamers increasingly prefer digital downloads over boxed copies. This is further reinforced by the fact that Saber Interactive, where Willits works, still generates significant revenue from physical games, especially in Europe. That points to a split market, where some regions still rely on physical sales while others are rapidly going digital.

The announcement that Sony will end support for physical discs in 2028 raises questions about the future of physical media in gaming. What does that mean for collectors and players who prefer boxed copies? Rising console prices could also become a barrier for new players, putting the accessibility of the gaming industry at risk.

What does this mean for players?

For gamers, this shift means adapting to an increasingly digital landscape. The option to own games physically may disappear, which would affect collectors and players who value physical media. In addition, rising console prices could make it harder for new players to get into gaming, potentially affecting the diversity of the gaming community.

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