Sony to End PlayStation Games on Discs by 2028, Move to Digital-Only Downloads
Sony has announced that from January 2028 it will stop releasing new PlayStation games on discs, shifting to digital-only downloads in response to changing consumer preferences.
Sony said on Wednesday that it will cease releasing new video games for the PlayStation console on disc from January 2028, following a shift in consumer preferences. After this date, new games will be available only through digital downloads, either directly from the PlayStation Store or via download codes from retailers.
The decision comes after Sony introduced a disc-less version of the PlayStation 5 in 2020. The company stated that this is a natural direction to adapt to consumer trends, as the preference for digital media significantly outpaces physical discs. According to Piers Harding-Rolls of Ampere Analysis, digital game sales rose from 13% in 2013—when the PS4 launched—to nearly 80% in 2025.
The announcement has drawn criticism from some gamers. Content creator Conkerax called it "a catastrophe" on social media. Concerns include the upcoming exclusively digital release of Grand Theft Auto VI, which is expected to be a blockbuster, eliminating the secondhand market. Harding-Rolls noted worries about choice, accessing older physical games on new consoles, and game preservation.
Sony said the change does not affect games already released or those releasing on disc before January 2028. Analysts predict a negative impact on specialist game retailers and the secondhand market. The move has also renewed speculation about the next-generation PlayStation 6, with Daniel Ahmad of Niko Partners stating it "pretty much confirms PS6 will be digital only."
