Why can’t we simply have both favors?
If you’re been a long-time reader here at The Outerhaven (thank you!) you’d know that I simply adore Collector’s Editions when it comes to games (and even non-gaming stuff). It doesn’t matter if it includes a steel bookcase (sexy), a well-done bust or statue (even sexier), an art book, or more. As long as it is a game I’m looking forward to, I’ll snag the collector’s edition every time.
Or at least, that’s how it used to be, but now I’ve been giving this some thought and I already see myself running into a massive problem. As it stands, most collector editions come with physical editions of games; at least for the consoles. The PC doesn’t have this issue, yet I don’t purchase a lot of collector editions for PC games as I just download the game and call it a day. Not that PC games get as many CE’s as console games do.
However, I’ve found myself doing the very same thing for my console games. Outside of the most recent The Last of Us Part II (which you should check out our review), every game I’ve purchased since Sekiro has been a digital game. Yes, I did also did pick up the Sekiro Collector’s Edition, but I was also a bit frustrated that it was a physical-only game. This also prompted me to also purchase a digital copy of the game – not that Activision minds that one bit.
Since then I had started thinking since then that perhaps it’s time for publishers to start offering a choice of CE’s, both in a physical and digital edition. Why are we still stuck in the past? Where are all the digital collector’s editions?
Sure there are exceptions, but those are few and far in-between. Typically when you run out to spend your hard-earned cash you do so on CE that includes a physical game. Now I’m not saying that there’s anything wrong with it, yet there should be options for those who have decided to go the all-digital route. I am not the only one who has done this and I sure as heck won’t be the last either. So perhaps it’s time for a chance; OPTIONS! Give us options!
Out of the upcoming games that have collector’s editions, only one of them is going the digital route. That game being Destiny 2: Beyond Light, which can only be purchased via Bungie’s website. Every other AAA game; Assassin’s Creed Vahalla, Cyberpunk 2077, Ghost of Tsushima, even Marvel’s Avengers are still bundled with physical games. What’s with that? It’s worth noting that there isn’t even a physical collector’s edition available for Destiny 2: Beyond Light. At least not officially offered via Bungie.
Now, I know digital games aren’t for everyone, but just hear me out. Without offering a digital collector’s edition, publishers will eventually start to exclude gamers who prefer digital games. Just look at the upcoming PlayStation 5, which has both a disc-based and all-digital version. Should you go with the all-digital PS5, you simply won’t be able to get partake in the collector’s editions. That is unless you double dip, something that I’ve done on several occasions, and get both the digital copy and physical collector’s edition.
C’mon publishers, it’s time to get with the times and start offering these beautiful collector’s editions for both sides of the fence. The digital revolution is underway and it’s high time you got with the program!
Could the current of having physical collector’s editions eventually stop me from purchasing them? Well, that depends on if I deem the CE worth it, but even then if I end up with an all-digital console, I doubt I’m going to want to continue to double dip just for the pleasure of owning a collector’s edition.
I’d love to know your stance on this situation in the comments. Would you consider a digital-only collector’s edition or is it strictly physical for you?
