Iwata: Digital era decades away

The digital revolution is upon, but the speed at which the transition from retail to broadband will happen is certainly a matter of debate – and heavyweight industry figure Satoru Iwata reckons that we’re still some way off ditching retail.

“Most radical people even dare to say that retailers will be replaced by digital distribution in no time,” the Nintendo president told investors. “But personally, I think it will still require a significant amount of time.

“In short, in 20 years or so I might say it will have probably changed. But in five years or so, I do not totally agree with opinions that no one will purchase titles at retailers by then. Habits of life do not change such radically and quickly.”

The claims come in stark contrast to those made by games analyst Nick Parker, who told attendees at the recent London Games Conference that gaming’s “iTunes moment” will occur in 2014.