For all you people out there waiting for the Blu-Ray/HD-DVD format wars to end before making the plunge, Blockbuster has decided going forward to stock ONLY Blu-Ray titles in all its stores. It will still however rent HD-DVD titles through its online store (and whatever existing stock remains in its stores). Per internal metrics, over 70% of HD discs rented at Blockbuster were Blu-Ray.

I personally decided to go with Blu-Ray two months ago based on the format’s technological superiority (see this review) amongst other factors. But hey, Beta-Max was better than VHS and ended up the same heap as Laserdisc’s. The adult industry helped tip the scales toward VHS, but will they help decide the format war again? One thing I do know is if they decide to exclusively endorse one of these formats, it will be a big blow to the other side. Both sides have other respective advantages of content exclusivity. Sony Pictures have pumped out Blu-Ray exclusive titles like Casino Royale. Then there is Universal pumping out HD-DVD exclusive titles such the upcoming Heroes: Season 1. Disney has not officially said no to making HD-DVDs, but to date has ONLY pressed Blu-Ray discs such as Pirates of the Caribbean.

So does Blockbuster’s move spell the beginning of the end for HD-DVD or will I be left holding the bag..…. only time will tell.

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