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With physical ownership it is usually clear what you own. With software, games, films, books and other digital media, you often do not buy an independent copy but access under the conditions of an account, platform or licence.
That difference becomes visible when a provider stops operating, removes a title, blocks an account or no longer supports a device.
On digital platforms, “buying” can legally and technically mean receiving a right to use something for as long as the account, service and licensing infrastructure continue to function. Read the terms and check whether files can be stored and used independently.
DRM can make use dependent on servers, accounts or approved devices. Even when a file is stored locally, the ability to open it can disappear if the control infrastructure goes away.
Not always, but physical media can provide an additional form of independence when the content remains usable without continuous online authorisation. Physical media can still require firmware, accounts or downloads, so assess the specific product.
Where legally and technically possible, keep local copies, document accounts and recovery details and make real backups. Remember that synchronising with a cloud folder is not the same thing as an independent recovery copy.
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