PlayStation users urged to boycott consoles from Aug. 23 to 30
A social media campaign called #PSBlackout asks gamers to turn off PlayStation consoles for a week to protest Sony’s shift to an all-digital model, but critics doubt its impact.
A grassroots campaign launched on social media is calling PlayStation owners to power down their consoles or log out for seven days, from Sunday, Aug. 23 through Sunday, Aug. 30. The organizers say the boycott is intended to signal consumer opposition to Sony Interactive Entertainment’s plan to cease production of new physical discs in 2028 and to push the company toward a different strategy.
The effort, promoted with the hashtag #PSBlackout, urges participants to create an “economic and gameplay blackout” that they claim will give publishers and developers a clear signal while minimizing disruption to players.
Critics have questioned the timing and effectiveness of the initiative, noting that the chosen week coincides with Gamescom and does not align with major game releases that could amplify its impact. Some observers argue that the short, isolated window is unlikely to exert significant pressure on Sony or affect its long-term plans.
"We feel this period gives publishers and developers minimal impact while still giving players a voice," the campaign’s statement read.
The movement has drawn mixed reactions online, with a minority of gamers indicating they will participate, while others say they may continue playing or even increase purchases during the period. Analysts suggest the boycott is expected to remain low-key and may not produce measurable change in Sony’s policies.