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Sony announces new discs won’t be produced for PlayStation consoles from 2028 Sony announces new discs won’t be produced for PlayStation consoles from 2028
In a surprising move, video game giant Sony announced in a blog post that it is shifting away from physical discs. PlayStation consoles will no longer receive physical disc releases starting January 2028.
Physical discs have been a staple of the video game industry for decades. Sony followed the trend with the PS1 in 1994 and has continued the tradition until the PS5. But things are now going digital, and that era is coming to an end.
Sony stated that consumer preferences are shifting away from physical discs to digital alternatives. The company said this is why it is adapting to consumer trends, and the transition aims to align with community preferences and accessibility.
Starting January 2028, buyers will only be able to purchase and download the games digitally from the PlayStation Store. Sony also mentioned that retailers will sell digital versions. Still, it’s unclear at this time whether they will sell game keys similar to those on online marketplaces or use a different method.
Image credit: Rockstar Games
The much-awaited crown jewel of Rockstar Games, GTA 6,
recently went live with pre-orders, and fans found out that the game would only be available digitally. This sparked massive outrage among fans, who wanted to purchase physical discs rather than link the game to their accounts.
Rockstar also stated the game could be purchased online or players could buy a box with a digital code from physical shops. Some retailers refused to stock
GTA 6, criticizing Rockstar for not selling discs and just giving empty boxes.
Sony may receive similar pushback from physical retailers, who could argue that players may want to buy digital games directly from the PlayStation Store rather than a third-party vendor.
There is also a larger discussion among players right now about whether buyers will really own the game if they have no discs. An even bigger issue may be for players who buy games second-hand due to financial constraints.
Digital games have no resale market and cannot be resold, which will essentially hinder players who want second-hand games. Time will tell how Sony’s move affects both the company and the video game industry.
Khizar Mundia
About Khizar Mundia
Khizar Mundia has been playing video games for as long as he can recall. Things have come a long way since the many days he spent playing the original NES, though. He now covers a variety of competitive games and esports, as well as the world of streaming, ranging from Twitch to Kick. If it’s of interest to gamers, it’s of interest to Khizar.
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