Well, you also have to consider that there are ALSO net positives to Steam. Digital download is more convenient than having to go to a store and buy a game, or buy one online and have it shipped to you. It may be that the number of people who see digital downloads as a net benefit and the number who see it as a net negative are basically the same and basically cancel each other out, meaning the price is roughly the same.
Theoretically, if Steam allowed you to easily transfer individual game licenses between users in exchange for money, Steam games might end up actually costing MORE than physical copy counterparts.
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