Gamestop Releases Digital Distribution Service

Top specialty game retailer GameStop has launched a new PC games download service on its website.

The move is an important step in keeping brick-and-mortar-based retailers relevant in an environment where digital downloads are becoming increasingly commonplace.

Currently, the destination is home to 1,025 PC titles, ranging from casual games to more core-focused releases. Prices range from around $5 up to $60, and include titles such as Luxor, Texas Hold 'em, Civilization IV, Tomb Raider: Legend and Advent Rising. At this point, the majority of the games available cater more to the casual gamer.

(From Next-Gen)

One wonders exactly how this "keeps brick-and-mortar retailers relevant," to be honest. It may keep the corporation itself relevant and allow it to compete with services such as Valve's "Steam," but doesn't this actually just provide another way to circumvent B&M stores for PC software? I mean, it isn't like they'll require you to go down to the store and get a "certificate" for download, would they--that kinda defeats the point of it.

Still, it's interesting to see where they'll go with this.