Sony to Phase Out Physical PlayStation Game Discs by 2028

Sony announced that it will cease production of physical game discs for PlayStation consoles starting in January 2028, meaning future hardware such as the next‑generation PS6 will rely exclusively on digital distribution. The move has ignited a strong backlash from gamers worldwide who fear loss of ownership, higher prices, and limited access in regions where the PlayStation Store is unavailable. About 122 countries currently lack PlayStation Store services, raising concerns that players there could be unable to purchase new titles at all.

Digital‑first retailer GOG used the announcement to promote its DRM‑free model, urging users to download offline installers and burn them to disc so the games remain theirs forever. GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen described the shift as “totally irrelevant” to his company, noting that software sales now account for only 12% of revenue while collectibles generate over half of its earnings. His comments were accompanied by mention of a stalled $56 billion bid for eBay.

Consumers have organized petitions, boycotts, and social‑media campaigns demanding continued physical releases. Some titles, such as Mortal Shell II for PS5, have sold out physical editions faster than anticipated, underscoring the demand. Developers and publishers also voiced worries that the digital‑only strategy could limit marketing options and collector‑edition sales.