Since the mp3 files was first released digital media distribution has been on a massive upwards curve. This form of distribution hit the 360 with the launch of “Games on Demand”. But is it worth it? Is it a good idea poorly executed?

Launched on August 11th 2009 Games on Demand promised a new way to buy your xbox games conveniently from your own living room, forget the trip to town or waiting for the post. The idea is great but in my opinion so poorly implemented it’s almost unbelievable.

Currently the platform is over priced and out dated (in terms of titles available). At the moment the games available vary from Halo 3 to Avatar: The Last Air Bender. So to be fair there are some big games such as Halo 3. But it’s £19.99 now if I went to Game or Gamestation I could pick this game up for £10 at a push £15. That means going to Game could save you 50%. So where is the incentive? Well there isn’t one. I personally expect to be able to download games such as FIFA, Call of Duty on launch day for £5 to £10 cheaper than visiting Game, Gamestation etc…

It wouldn’t take much to improve the system. How about Halo: Reach available from midnight on launch day for £30. Microsoft would make more money selling a digital copy at £30 than a hard copy at £40 so why isn’t this happening. Now I’m not claiming to be an expert but it seems like common sense, which unfortunately some people in the Gaming Industry are lacking.

What about 1 day early access if you buy the digital version? If you are a Call of Duty fan boy with a PS3 and Xbox 360 would you wait to buy the hardcopy of the game or buy it one day early? I’m pretty sure Microsoft could convert a large number of people with schemes like this.

What about Deals of the Week? They do this excellently with the Arcade, so why isn’t Halo £10 for a week? It’s a first party game so now publisher issues with the reduction. It just strange how a company can get it so right (with the Arcade) yet so wrong (with Games on Demand).

So there you go Microsoft here is a quick way to improve a great idea. The service could be so great. Unfortunately I fear this will not happen and Games on Demand will remain over priced and out dated for a long time to come. Lets just hope PS3 getting Steam forces Microsoft to get into gear and focus on getting it right instead of below average.