I wont argue it is better, but you can do this with some games on steam using offline mode if the game supports other methods of multi-player outside of steam.

I need neither a CD drive nor to store tons of plastic slabs with easily-scratching discs inside, nor to swap discs just to play a different game. Nor to go downtown to buy new ones.

It's a lot better in many ways, even if not specifically in sharing.

But playing with my brother now costs me double.