When it comes to video game titles these days you can pretty much decide on if you rather add a physical copy to your collection or store your video games virtually. There’s definitely pros and cons to both and if you’re a fan of the latter option then you may have opted to purchase a download code through a reputable retailer. Take for example GameStop which would have sold digital codes to the latest video game titles for the PlayStation 4 but that doesn’t appear to be the case anymore.
A new rumor was brought out by an industry insider known as Wario64. Apparently, this insider was able to secure a memo for GameStop employees that alerted an upcoming announcement and transition from Sony. Starting on April 1, 2019, Sony will no longer allow retailers to sell digital codes for full video games. Instead, retailers will still be able to sell other codes such as add-on content and virtual currency.
GameStop stores just got a memo saying that Sony will no longer provide full game digital download codes to retailers (not just GameStop) starting April 1st. Digital games will only be available straight from PSN after that date. Add-on content/PSN $ cards will still be available
— Wario64 (@Wario64) March 22, 2019
This was a rumor until The Verge was able to get a statement from Sony’s PlayStation division who confirmed that this was, in fact, a real memo announcement. According to the PlayStation spokesperson, this was done to align key businesses globally.
This decision was made in order to continue to align key businesses globally. To support full games and premium editions, SIE will introduce increased denominations at select retailers. DLC, add-ons, virtual currency, and season passes will still be available.
At any rate, gamers can still obtain these digital purchases directly through the PlayStation Store. Likewise, with the ability to purchase virtual currency to spend in the PlayStation Store, this will likely not become too big of an issue for gamers, but only time will tell.
Source: The Verge
