In a since deleted tweet from Bethesda Support, they have informed a user that all physical versions of the game regardless of platform will only contain a code to download the game.
While this has been the norm for PC for a while this might be the beginning of a trend for consoles. Personally I feel like there is no point in having a physical version at all if there won’t be a disc included let alone charging full price for it.
Update: After yesterdays news that Starfield might not have a physical disc, Bethesda has come in to clarify the following
Starfield Standard Edition is included with Xbox Game Pass. Game disc included with physical purchases of Xbox Standard Edition. Game code included with physical purchases on PC Standard edition.
I’d argue that “true” physical releases died after the PS2 generation, or maybe the 360/PS3 generation if you’re being generous. When THPS5 shipped on a disc that only included the tutorial, that was an ugly turning point.
I’m not totally against digital distribution, because it can be quite convenient, and it’s also allowed the indie scene to thrive. However, I also don’t like the death of physical games, because it’s terrible for preservation, and it takes control away from end users. As a PC player who hasn’t owned a current gen console in years, I’m well aware of how much I’m at the mercy of digital distribution services like Steam.
Yep. All that has to happen is Valve gets bought out or significantly changes leadership direction, and my entire Steam “collection” could be fuckin worthless. I don’t like it.