Dan Houser Says Physical Games Should Exist, Even If He Doesn’t Need Them
The Rockstar co-founder also pointed to game updates as one reason digital releases have improved software quality.
Rockstar co-founder Dan Houser offered a measured view of the physical-versus-digital debate, saying companies should continue selling games on disc if players want them, even though he does not personally feel strongly about the format.
Houser discussed the issue in an IGN interview alongside Grand Theft Auto writer Jeffrey Crawford “Lazlow” Jones. “I don’t know that I care. If people want that, I think companies should provide it,” Houser said.
He added that digital distribution has brought one clear benefit: developers can continue fixing games after launch. “The ability to update and fix problems in games has been really useful for the quality of games,” Houser explained.
That does not mean Houser has lost his appreciation for boxed releases. Jones described the satisfaction of holding a physical copy and being able to point to something the team made. Houser agreed, saying, “I love physical media. I think everyone does, you know.”
Jones also highlighted the convenience of digital games, recalling how useful it can be to download a few titles to a Steam Deck before a long flight. Physical copies offer ownership and a tangible connection to a game, while downloads make it easier to carry a large library without bringing a stack of discs along.
The comments arrive as Sony plans to end physical disc production for new games releasing on PlayStation consoles in January 2028, according to the company’s official announcement. Rockstar’s next Grand Theft Auto game is also planned as a digital-only release and will be exclusive to consoles at launch, adding another major example to the industry’s ongoing move away from boxed software.
Houser’s position leaves room for both formats. He sees value in patches and downloads, but his comments also recognize why players still want a disc they can hold, collect, and keep.
Physical media remains an important part of the conversation around game ownership. Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, and Instagram.
