A video game trader says his industry faces the loss of thousands of jobs because of the phase out of physical media.
Barry Oates started reselling games back in 1995 – first in the local newspaper then from his high street shop at the turn of the millennium.
But he worries about the future of the industry after Sony announced that newly released games would only be available via digital download from January 2028.
He thinks the loss of physical discs and other media will have an impact on the culture of the hobby, making gaming less affordable and removing the community aspect he loves.
His business, Dream Consoles, is still trading online – and he hopes the income will see him through to retirement – but worries about the next generation of traders.
Oates said pre-owned game trading was the “bread and butter” of an independent game re-selling businesses like his.
He said having old and new games released was important to the “cycle” of game trading, which helped his business cover bills and balance his books.
“It’s about recycling, isn’t it, rather than just throwing it away?” he added.
He believes businesses like his are important, as they keep gaming affordable for gamers, especially during the cost-of-living crisis.
He said gamers often used game trading to help them to afford more expensive or newer games and consoles.
Pre-owned games can be exchanged at second-hand gaming and technology shops for newer game releases or shop credit to put towards more expensive purchases like a console.
Oates said: “It’s really important to the average man in the street, their kids will want the latest [games], and they’ve got options.
“A £50 game or a pre-loved one.”