Microsoft recently launched the Xbox “Disc-to-Digital” program, originally seen as a generous feature allowing players to convert their physical Xbox One and Xbox Series X game discs into digital game rights. However, the feature launched and immediately hit an awkward problem: many major publishers simply didn’t participate.
Ubisoft, Square Enix, SEGA, Bandai Namco Don’t Support It—Major Titles Immediately Excluded!
Publishers currently unable to have their games redeemed for digital licenses through this program include Square Enix, Ubisoft, SEGA, and Bandai Namco, effectively blocking major titles like Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Assassin’s Creed, Like a Dragon, and Elden Ring from the program. Even more embarrassing: when a Kotaku journalist actually tested with a Ubisoft game, the system directly stated “This game is not participating in the digital license program,” while Ubisoft simply replied “Please consult Microsoft.” That response essentially kicked the ball back to Microsoft.
Disc-to-Digital Was Supposed to Be Great, But Still Depends on Publisher Approval
The Xbox program is designed to convert supported physical games into digital licenses, with the digital rights following the physical disc. Even if the disc is resold, the rights can transfer to the new owner. However, the biggest problem is the “supported list” isn’t entirely up to Microsoft alone. Especially for games that support Xbox Play Anywhere, if the physical version can’t be redeemed, players wanting to play on PC still have to purchase a separate digital copy. What was supposed to be a convenient feature for players instantly becomes “buy it again.”
Players Discover “Digital” Isn’t So Simple Either
As the industry gradually shifts toward digital, physical game survival space is shrinking—Sony even announced plans to stop producing new PlayStation physical game discs starting in 2028. But Xbox’s situation this time also reminds players that digitization doesn’t mean everything becomes more free, because whether you can convert your physical games to digital ultimately depends on whether publishers are willing to agree. Microsoft wanted to help players “go digital,” but with major studios saying “we’re not participating,” players’ physical discs still just have to stay in the console.