Russian retailers are shifting away from disc-based releases of new computer games, including high-profile titles like The Last Of Us Part I, Resident Evil 4 remake, and Hogwarts Legacy. This shift is reported by Izvestia.
Industry insiders suggest that Russian publishers no longer see a viable path for PC games on physical discs. A key factor? Local gamers have grown accustomed to lower prices. When a disc version hits the market at around 3,000 rubles or more, buyers often opt out, especially if the typical price is closer to 2,000 rubles per game. This price sensitivity has left many stores reluctant to stock physical PC discs, according to an anonymous source cited by Izvestia.
The expectation among market observers is that disc versions of PC games, along with boxed copies for Xbox and PlayStation, will gradually disappear from Russian shelves. Presently, physical discs account for roughly 10% of total game sales in the country, a figure that researchers say will continue to decline as digital sales dominate.
In related commentary, Socialbites.ca noted a lukewarm reception to the PC version of The Last of Us: Part 1 on Steam, where the release earned only modest approval. Critics and players highlighted ongoing technical issues in the launch version, which may influence how retailers and platforms view future PC disc offerings and digital strategy, particularly in markets with restricted distribution channels and shifting consumer expectations. [Attribution: Izvestia; Socialbites.ca]