Just a different time frame. The article you linked had Nintendo saying they thought it would take 20 years or so before digital downloads replace traditional media. Even they make it sound inevitable, however. Not a matter of if, but when.

And really, I think their time frame is realistic. Digital game downloads will be the norm before too long, but it takes time to change established business models. What we really need for it to happen is some successful download businesses, and we're starting to see those, slowly but surely. Direct2Drive has been around for a few years, and is apparently doing well. Xbox live is allowing digital downloads of select games, and presumably making money. We just need someone to hit it big in order for things to really change. Onlive and Gaikai (or whatever they're called) may help in that respect, if they do well. They're not traditional downloads, but still well in the realm of digital distribution.

As for myself, I look forward to the day when we switch to digital. Instant availability is a huge plus, but more importantly, digital distribution lowers the cost of entry for small and independent game developers. A move to full (or at least, greatly expanded) digital distribution would bring us a huge influx of games, as small developers realize the potential of actually being able to make money. Games like Braid and World of Goo are every bit as fun as at least 70% of the "real titles," yet we see hardly any of them, because developers can't make any money. Xbox live arcade and a few other things are slowly changing that, but it's still true, for the most part.

I don't think I'll miss the trappings too much.