Critics Urge PlayStation Boycott Over Disc Decision

Backers of physical media have called on gamers to boycott PlayStation for a week in August to send a message to Sony that its decision to kill discs from 2028 is unacceptable.

The Does it play? X / Twitter account, a vocal critic of Sony's plan to eliminate PlayStation game discs, has initiated a call to action that has garnered nearly 1 million views on social media. The account proposed a 1-week #PSBlackout in August, urging no logins, play sessions, or purchases on any of Sony's platforms.

Sony's rationale for moving away from discs is based on evolving consumer preferences. Sid Shuman, Senior Director at Sony Interactive Entertainment Content Communications, explained that starting January 2028, all new games on PlayStation consoles will be available only in digital formats, aligning with the shift towards digital media.

Despite Sony's justifications, critics like Does it play? and the UK's ERA have voiced opposition, emphasizing the value of physical discs for gamers who prioritize ownership and preservation. However, industry analysts suggest that Sony is unlikely to reverse its decision, given the strong momentum towards digital content consumption.