Part 9/9:
Ryan’s investigation underscores a fundamental shift in gaming retail: physical sales may no longer be the sole or even primary indicator of a game’s popularity. The scarcity of Ghost of Tsushima on shelves correlates with high demand, while the plentiful stock of The Last of Us Part II suggests many copies remain unsold, possibly due to overestimation of physical need and rising digital sales. As the industry transitions, understanding these nuanced dynamics is crucial for players, developers, and retailers alike.