Sony’s move to stop making physical game discs by 2028 might have fans up in arms, but the numbers tell a different story. In the US this year, only seven PlayStation games have sold over 100,000 physical copies, suggesting that gamers are already embracing digital downloads.
Industry analyst Mat Piscatella from Circana reports that during a recent week in July, just two PlayStation titles managed over 10,000 physical sales. This trend isn’t just a US issue; it’s a sign of the times in the global gaming market. Despite the backlash, Sony seems committed to this digital future, much like how Sony plans to halt disc production in a few years.
While some fans are vocal about their love for physical copies, the reality is that digital is dominating. It’s a shift we’ve seen across the industry as more companies, like Xbox with its Game Pass offerings, lean into digital services. As the debate rages on, it’ll be interesting to see if die-hard disc fans put their money where their mouth is and affect change.
Keep an eye on how this unfolds and consider what format you prefer next time you’re purchasing a game.
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