(07-07-2013, 09:29 PM)Kyatai Wrote: So, it's been a bit since I've contemplated getting a box set... And wondering, if I preorder, will I also get digital download?
I would say the answer to that is a bit murkier.
1) For some games, if you do beta the game and download the beta client, that version can turn into a "release" version that is all patched-up and ready to go. This could be considered a "digital download".
2) I've seen a few games that recommend uninstalling the beta client, so that may happen here...or maybe not. In some of these instances, the beta client works anyway, even if they recommend uninstalling it.
3) If you do pre-order, most games have an "early access" for pre-orders, where you get to play the game 3-5 days before the a copy of the game actually hits store shelves. So, it allows you to download the program: that could be considered a "digital copy".
4) Generally speaking, at some point in a game's future, be it a month or a year, you should be able to re-download. This is in case you get a new hard drive or your invisible cat-owl gets into the computer and eats your files or what-have-you. Logging into your account, there should be an option to recover the program. In essence, sooner or later, everyone gets a "digital download" as time goes by.
I might be missing some examples and I've seen a few of the above examples occurring all at once, so I don't think you should worry. Just remember it probably is no-skin off Square-Enix to make the program freely available since you still need a subscription to actually log-in and play on your account. I think the only thing that happens with a digital download versus other ways to get the game is just the amount of "physical stuff" you get with the box (plus the box!). Personally, I think everyone has access to the download, if not sooner then later.
