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'Physical media is what makes consoles the best place to play' — PlayStation fans pushing back against Sony's plan to end physical discs have managed to amass over 170,000 signatures in a bid to reverse the decision

Sony faces significant backlash from fans after announcing plans to cease physical PlayStation game disc production by January 2028, sparking a petition that has already surpassed 170,000 signatures.

Key Points

  • Sony confirmed it will stop manufacturing physical game discs for all new PlayStation titles starting in January 2028.
  • A Change.org petition titled "Don't Kill the Disc" has garnered over 172,000 signatures from concerned players.
  • Critics argue that replacing discs with digital download codes removes consumer ownership, resale rights, and the ability to trade games.
  • The petition was initiated by the CEO of Canadian retailer PNP Games, citing concerns over potential job losses and the decline of physical retail.
  • Recent industry trends, including the decision to ship physical editions of Grand Theft Auto 6 without discs, have intensified consumer frustration.

Why it Matters

This shift toward a digital-only model signals a major transition in the gaming industry that threatens the traditional secondary market and consumer ownership rights. If Sony maintains this policy, it could set a precedent for other publishers to follow, potentially marginalizing physical retailers and limiting how players access and preserve their game libraries.
TechRadar Published by Demi Williams
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