Xbox Disc-to-Digital Program Keeps Getting Larger, Adding Big Publisher
Overview & Key Takeaways
Sega joins Xbox's disc-to-digital program, increasing the list of compatible titles, while improvements continue to roll out.
Xbox's disc-to-digital feature is currently in its testing phase and is only available to those who are part of the Insiders program. This allows the company to receive feedback and release updates to ensure that disc-to-digital is in the best shape before public release. It also gives publishers more time to decide to join the digitization effort. This week, a particular set of improvements has gotten fans excited about the state of the program.
The disc-to-digital program has been available to Xbox Insiders since Aug. 31. Its release didn't come as a surprise, as a roadmap outlining the feature was leaked shortly before. The program allows players to claim a digital license for games they physically own. This allows them to easily access the games as long as the license is associated with their account.
Since its release, Insiders have gotten acquainted with the program, sharing new details on it with the community and sending Xbox feedback to continue improving it. One of the best features of disc-to-digital is that it includes delisted games with previously unobtainable digital licenses. On the other hand, some titles that players expected to digitize easily, as they were widely available on digital platforms, couldn't be claimed because their publishers were not participating in the disc-to-digital program.
Sega joins Xbox's disc-to-digital program
Some big companies did not agree to have their games in the disc-to-digital program. Ubisoft was one of the few that stood out, but it has had a change of heart. Sega took a bit longer, but as of Sept. 28, it has joined the program, allowing fans to digitize beloved games like Sonic and Persona. Getting as many publishers as possible to join should be Xbox's priority, as this will allow players to digitize a larger portion of their physical library.
Besides this, Xbox continues to push out updates to make the feature accessible and straightforward. Previously, gamers had to insert the game into the console and go into the Settings menu to claim a license, but now it is automatically done once the disc slides in. The first time they use disc-to-digital, an explainer will appear on-screen so they understand how the program works. After that, it'll be a mere, non-intrusive pop-up notification.
