Xbox's Physical Game Presence in Japan: A Minecraft-Only Affair
Yodobashi Camera Akihabara, affectionately known as Akiba, is a paradise for gamers and video game enthusiasts. However, a recent observation by a user on X/Twitter has revealed a surprising shift in the Xbox section of the store. According to the user, the Xbox section is almost barren, with Minecraft Legends being the only physical game available for purchase.
The user noted that Xbox has largely moved away from physical releases in Japan. The shelves that once held a variety of Xbox titles now predominantly feature advertisements for Microsoft's subscription service, Xbox Game Pass. While accessories like controllers are still on display, the absence of physical game discs is palpable.
"Xbox section in Yodobashi Camera Akihabara! Xbox have almost completely moved away from physical releases in Japan. There is only 1 physical game on display (Minecraft Legends). The rest is ads for Game Pass. Minecraft is very popular in Japan," tweeted Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) on July 8, 2024.
Minecraft's popularity in Japan is undeniable. The game has sold over 300 million copies globally as of October 2023 and continues to sell approximately 25 million copies annually. In 2023, it was the 11th best-selling title in Japan for the Nintendo Switch. Additionally, Minecraft Dungeons Ultimate Edition and Legends also made it onto the sales charts. The game boasts a monthly player base of 100-150 million, with Japan contributing significantly to these numbers.
Fans Think Only Minecraft Has Kept Xbox Relevant in Japan
The preference for physical discs among Japanese gamers has long been established. However, it appears that game companies are gradually shifting away from this tradition. One user lamented that Xbox discs were always hard to find in Japan, and now even consoles are becoming scarce.
"Just accept Xbox is finished man…" tweeted NOT_VERGIL (@Raidenslosteye) on July 8, 2024.
Another user echoed this sentiment, stating that Minecraft is the "only reason" Xbox maintains any presence in Japan. The fan suggested that Xbox's move towards an all-digital future might signal the end of its physical game releases in the region.
"Minecraft is literally the only reason Xbox still has any presence in Japan…And it wasn't even an IP they created," remarked ThatGenericEric (@ThatGenericEric) on July 8, 2024.
While this shift does not necessarily mean that Xbox is entirely abandoning the physical video game market, it does indicate a significant reduction in physical releases. Fans have observed similar trends worldwide, with other companies like Ubisoft also showing signs of transitioning to digital-only games.
An all-digital future for video games seems imminent, but many fans are not ready to embrace this change. A substantial number of gamers still prefer owning physical discs over digital downloads. The debate continues as companies navigate this evolving landscape.
What are your thoughts about only Minecraft being available physically? Let us know in the comments!
