Remember when buying a game meant holding a box, flipping through a manual, and actually owning something? In 2026, as the industry pushes harder toward digital-only consoles, I've done the opposite—I bought a PS5 disc drive and started hunting for second-hand games at my local shop. And honestly? It's been a breath of fresh air.
The timing might seem odd. Protests have been hitting PlayStation over various decisions, and the drumbeat of "physical media is dying" keeps getting louder. But instead of mourning the loss, I leaned in. Picking up that disc drive felt like a small rebellion, a way to keep the games I love from vanishing into a server somewhere.
There's something special about browsing shelves of pre-owned titles. You never know what you'll find—a hidden gem, a classic you missed, or a weird impulse buy that costs less than a coffee. Each disc has a history, and adding it to your collection feels more tangible than a download bar filling up.
And let's not forget the practical perks. Second-hand games are often cheaper, you can lend them to friends, and they don't disappear when a store delists them. In an era where digital storefronts can close at any time, owning a physical copy is a tiny insurance policy for your hobby.
Does that mean I'm swearing off digital forever? Not at all. But the disc drive has reminded me that games aren't just files—they're objects we can share, trade, and keep. That tactile connection is something no download can replicate.
Maybe the death of physical media is exaggerated. Or maybe it's just forcing us to appreciate what we have while we still have it. Either way, I'm glad I gave my disc drive a second chance.
What about you? Have you bought a physical game recently, or are you all-in on digital? Let us know in the comments!
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