Microsoft Xbox introduces Disc to Digital feature amid publisher resistance

Microsoft is introducing a ‘Disc to Digital’ feature for Xbox, allowing users to convert physical game discs into digital licenses linked to their accounts at no additional cost. Once a title is converted, the physical disc is no longer required to play the game. To prevent misuse, the system is designed so that if a disc is used by a different person to activate the feature, the previous digital license is revoked and replaced by the new owner’s.

However, the rollout faces challenges as several major publishers are reportedly declining to participate. Reports indicate that titles from Ubisoft, such as ‘Far Cry 4’, ‘Far Cry 5’, ‘Watch Dogs Legion’, and ‘Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’, as well as Square Enix titles including ‘Rise of the Tomb Raider’ and ‘Just Cause 3’, are currently ineligible. Users attempting to convert these games receive an error message stating that the digital license is unavailable. Other industry players, including Sega, Atlus, and Bandai Namco, are also noted to be hesitant regarding the program.