Growing up, gaming wasn’t just a hobby—it was a tangible collection of memories captured in stacks of meticulously lined-up game discs on the shelf. Watching my friend Jon carefully curate his over 125 Xbox 360 games and 15 original Xbox games, I’ve witnessed firsthand the passion, dedication, and hard-earned money that go into building such a collection. Now, it feels like these collections might become relics of the past if new consoles do away with physical disc drives.

The shift towards digital-only gaming might offer convenience for some, but it strips away the physical essence that many of us cherish. Owning a physical game disc means more than just possession; it represents ownership that can't be easily moderated or revoked. Digital platforms, primarily controlled by gaming companies, come with their drawbacks, such as restricted access when offline and the uncertainty of licensing agreements that can lead to games being removed from availability just like that. This control puts gamers at a disadvantage, creating an environment where they may feel more like renters than owners.

In recent years, the global gaming industry has seen a substantial shift towards digital purchases. According to a report from Statista, digital gaming revenues have increased significantly, from 14% of the gaming market in 2012 to nearly 90% by 2021. Despite this, there remains a sizable portion of the gaming community, including millions of collectors and offline gamers, who feel left out with this digital trend. These individuals have invested not only in buying games but also in the culture and experience of gaming.

Microsoft has always championed innovation within the gaming industry, and it's critical that the brand continues to cater to the diverse needs of its user base. By offering a physical disc drive in future Xbox consoles, Microsoft can maintain accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all gamers can secure their digital and physical gaming preferences.

We are urging Microsoft to listen to its community and incorporate disc drives in the next generation of Xbox consoles. Making gaming inclusive for everyone means catering to those who value a solid collection as much as those who prefer a cloud-based approach. Let’s respect both modern and traditional approaches to game ownership and make it possible to enjoy gaming whether online or offline.

Sign this petition to make a difference in how we connect with our beloved gaming culture. Let’s strive for a gaming future that honors both the digital age and the physical legacy. Your signature matters.