Can an External DVD/CD Drive Run Games?

It depends on the game type:

1. Games Designed to Run Directly from Disc (Older Titles)

• Yes. Common in the past. External drive works if game requires no installation.

2. Games Requiring Installation (Most Modern Games)

• No. Even with an external drive, you need a hard drive (internal/external) to install game files. Launching from disc won't work.

3. Digitally Downloaded Games

• No. Downloaded to computer's hard drive. External optical drive irrelevant.

Summary

• Older disc-based games: External drive can work.
• Modern installed games: External drive insufficient; need HDD/SSD.
• Digital games: External drive irrelevant.

Crucial: Your computer must meet the game's CPU/GPU/RAM requirements regardless of drive type.