Distribution Channels P4 (a)

Distribution Channels

As Activision usually produces more content for console games discs copies are still very popular and are sold by companies such as GAME. Due to increases in internet speed and larger hard drives in consoles gamers can now use services such as the PS Store to download games similar to the PC service Steam. Blizzard however are primarily focused on PC games and thus make their games available to download off their site. This has slowly lead to the demise of retail outlets such as GAME selling goods on the high street.

Although some countries may ban or restrict the sale or possession of AB's titles e.g Call of Duty WAW in Germany/ China in general nearly all of AB's titles are available on a global scale so long as you have fast enough internet.  

Digital Downloads:

Activision Blizzards main distribution channel is through digital downloads, however they do still sell content on disc. The reason for this is Blizzard (one of their subsidiaries) only produce digital content that can be transferred through online services such as Steam, PlayStation and Xbox stores and also their own sites.

PSN Store:

This is a site accessible through the PlayStation only, and allow for users to purchase goods online and instantly download content e.g Call of Duty DLC's ( downloadable content). Consumers prefer this method of distribution as it's faster than visiting a store and games are often much cheaper.

Xbox Games Store:

Similarly the Xbox has its own digital marketplace in which buyers can purchase games online.

Battle.net launcher:

The battle.net launcher is a program downloaded from the battle.net website owned by Blizzard, this launcher can be downloaded free then once logged in you can download the games you've purchased via the launcher.

Steam:

Although not used by Blizzard, Activision use Steam, the most used gaming service in the world to sell games such as Call of Duty. Steam is also free to download therefore easily accessible, so long as you have the correct PC specs and an internet connection.