Sony to End Physical Disc Production for PlayStation Games by 2028
Sony announced that new PlayStation games will be sold only in digital format starting January 2028, prompting consumer petitions and criticism.
Sony confirmed that beginning in January 2028, all newly released PlayStation games will be available exclusively through the PlayStation Store or as digital download codes from retailers. Physical discs for titles released before that date will remain playable on existing hardware. The company has added a notice to the packaging of current PlayStation 5 models that include a disc drive, informing buyers of the upcoming change.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: From Jan. 2028, newly released games on PlayStation will be available for purchase on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital format only. Discs for games released before Jan. 2028 can continue to be played on this console.
The decision follows a long-term shift toward digital distribution across the console market. Sony has faced online petitions and calls for boycotts, but the company has indicated that the policy will remain in effect. Industry observers note that digital sales have grown faster than physical sales in recent years, and the move could reduce manufacturing costs while increasing reliance on Sony’s own storefront.
Analysts also point out that the announcement may signal similar digital-only plans for future hardware, such as the anticipated PlayStation 6, though Sony has not provided details on subsequent consoles.