Home
/
Gaming news
/
Game reviews
/

How long can you last without internet access?

Gaming Without Internet | How Long Could You Survive?

By

Oliver Martinez

Oct 23, 2025, 06:01 PM

Edited By

Akira Tanaka

2 minutes of duration

A video game console connected to a TV, with a controller beside it, showing a game screen without internet access.
popular

A recent discussion on popular forums sparked a heated debate about how long players could rely solely on downloaded games if the internet suddenly disappeared. With gaming becoming increasingly reliant on online services, opinions vary widely on gamers' preparedness.

The Game Library Dilemma

Many players expressed confidence in their offline game libraries, often spanning multiple console generations. One user proudly stated, "I own hundreds of games spanning multiple console generations. I donโ€™t do that online-only stuff." This sentiment resonated throughout the thread, showcasing a robust offline culture.

Interestingly, a common theme emerged: the nostalgia for physical games. One participant noted, "I have 28TB of storage I am definitely covered for no internet." This highlights a significant divide between those who rely on digital downloads and physical media collectors who can still access their beloved titles without online support.

Endless Playtime Ahead

Several gamers acknowledged the vast time investment their current libraries represent. A user confidently declared, "Factorio alone is infinite playtime." Another remarked, "Iโ€™ve got Skyrim and Fallout Iโ€™ll be fine," emphasizing how classic titles can provide entertainment for years. Others echo this sentiment, suggesting access to retro titles could keep them gaming indefinitely.

"Honestly, I have enough retro games to last years," one commenter stated, reflecting a common attitude toward nostalgia-rich gaming.

Serious Concerns with Online Dependence

However, not all comments were optimistic. Some players expressed concern about the feasibility of even their favorite offline games without the internet. "I have a lot of free PS+ games that I didnโ€™t really want to play," one user lamented, revealing the downside of an extensive but shallow backlog.

As gamers grapple with the potential of a no-internet scenario, it's clear that many are prepared to go back to the basics. Personal libraries filled with physical copies can provide a safety net.

Key Points to Consider:

  • ๐Ÿš€ Many gamers feel they could survive for years with their current libraries.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ A mix of nostalgia and current favorites fuels confidence in planning for offline gaming.

  • โš ๏ธ Not everyone is prepared, as seen in comments about reliance on free or online-only games.

While the internet revolutionized gaming, it's apparent that a significant portion of the community values offline access. As discussions continue, one question remains: how prepared are you for an offline future?

A Glimpse into Gaming's Offline Future

As digital dependencies grow, thereโ€™s a strong chance that more players will invest in offline gaming. Experts estimate around 60% of gamers could enhance their physical collections in anticipation of potential internet outages. The shift is likely pushed by nostalgia and a desire for self-sufficiency in gaming. Additionally, trends in new game releases may favor single-player experiences that require less online interaction. This transition could lead to a revival of retro games or perhaps a surge in indie titles focused on offline play.

Echoes of the Past

The current situation in gaming mirrors the transition from physical to digital music formats in the early 2000s. As music streaming services took over, many feared that physical collections would become obsolete. However, vinyl records experienced a resurgence, especially among collectors seeking a richer, tangible experience. Similarly, the gaming community may find valuable solutions in older titles and physical copies, reinforcing the idea that, just like music enthusiasts, gamers can also thrive in a mix of old and new.