Consoles & Accessories

[curby62]

I am really new to all of the new game systems. Debating on buying an xbox, but I am wondering if you can download games directly onto the gaming system, or still have to purchase all on game discs. Any info would be greatly appreciated!

[Kyle-BBY Retired: Senior Social Media Specialist]

Hi curby62,

Great question!  The Xbox 360 does allow you to download some games directly onto your console's hard drive via Xbox Live.  They have a growing selection of On Demand full game downloads and Xbox Live Arcade games.  However, not all titles are available for download so some, such as new releases, still need to be purchased on disc.

Hope that helps!

[gpete13]

.... and playstation does the same as well. With the XBOX you will have to buy a subscription to get all the benefits of using your console for about $50 a year. The Playstation does not charge for using it to play games online and other basic things.

[Kyle-BBY Retired: Senior Social Media Specialist]

Good call-out gpete13.  The PS3 is also a great console with an exceptional online experience.

For clarification, the features you were interested, curby62, such as full game downloads and arcade games are actually available with the Free Xbox Live membership and don't require a paid membership to access.  Most people pay to upgrade to the Gold level to play online with their friends, watch Netflix, and things like that.

For more on Xbox LIVE membership levels:

http://www.xbox.com/en-US/Live/Join

[Jimmienomam]

Oh and don't forget that with the free PSN membership they have a side order of CC theft. :robotlaugh:

I will say while you can DL games I would suggest physical copies. They have a resale value and can be loaned out to friends. I know that is preferential, but I honestly can't get over those facts.

Also physical copies have multiple people selling the item meaning sales more often vs digital copies that only has M$. Usually means cheaper games for physical copies.

[zztoluca]

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Jimmienomam wrote:
Oh and don't forget that with the free PSN membership they have a side order of CC theft. :robotlaugh:

I will say while you can DL games I would suggest physical copies. They have a resale value and can be loaned out to friends. I know that is preferential, but I honestly can't get over those facts.

Also physical copies have multiple people selling the item meaning sales more often vs digital copies that only has M$. Usually means cheaper games for physical copies.

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Who actually stores their credit card info on their account. I just get psn cards

But 100% agree with you on Physical vs digital. plus you don't have to wait for a download

[gpete13]

I do and I've had no problems. Also got free credit protection from it.

I don't see why they charge for playing games online.

[zztoluca]

only arguments ive heard

"its better cause we pay for it"

"we get dlc sooner"

Non of which won me over when i was first deceding on what to get.

I mainly went with PS3 because its free online gaming and the exclusive titles that were too amazing to pass up

[gpete13]

I also have the Playstation Plus, which is a $50 charge a year. I made back that $50 in 2 months, with free download games, discounts and other free stuff. Last month I got Far Cry 2 for free, sure its 4 years old, but I never played it, and The Simpsons arcade.

I do not know if XBOX gives discounts or free games for Gold.