Sony to discontinue PlayStation game discs by 2028

PlayStation game discs by 2028">

Some gamers are concerned about the future of game ownership after Sony's announcement that it won’t produce physical discs for PlayStation games as of January 2028. On that date, “new games will be available on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital formats only,” Sony said in a blog post. The company views ditching discs as “a natural direction” to adapt to consumer trends, as the general preference for digital media significantly outpaces physical discs.

During Sony’s fiscal year ending on March 31, 2026, digital downloads accounted for 78 percent of full-game unit purchases, up from 76 percent in fiscal 2024. The move towards digital-only game releases raises questions about the ownership and accessibility of games in the long term, particularly if digital stores are discontinued or changed. Why this matters: The shift away from physical game discs has significant implications for the gaming industry, game developers, and consumers.

As digital releases become the norm, concerns about game preservation and ownership arise. If digital stores like the PlayStation Store were to shut down or change their business models, it could become difficult or expensive for players to access their purchased games. This change also puts pressure on game developers to ensure their titles remain compatible with evolving technology and available through supported channels.

For businesses, the move to digital-only releases may reduce costs associated with producing and distributing physical copies, but it also requires investment in digital infrastructure and support. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how companies will balance their business needs with consumer expectations around game ownership and accessibility.