Physical VS Digital

[Kriven]

It depends on the distribution service, honestly.

I really dislike the way Nintendo is handling their digital distribution. While I appreciate having all of those games available, the entire process just feels impersonal, and since I'm not guaranteed to be able to transfer the content from console to another (Wii-to-Wii, not Wii-to-Wii U, I know the latter has been addressed) I don't really feel like I own the content. It feels more like I purchased the right to play the games sometimes when they say it's okay.

However, I like the XBLA system a lot. The fact that the titles are linked to my account give me a feeling of ownership over them, even if it is a pseudo-sensation. The titles can also be reliably transferred to another console, so it feels like "I bought this, it's mine." I also like how most XBLA titles come equipped with achievements, and the potential to be upgraded over time.

In general, I used to like physical copy more. I'm now seeing how it's inconvenient as a whole to industry and consumer. To make an order chart:

XBLA > Physical > VirtualConsole/WiiWare