Sony has announced that all new PlayStation games released from January 2028 will no longer be sold on physical discs, marking a major shift toward digital distribution.
Instead of Blu-ray discs, boxed retail editions will contain a digital download code, allowing players to redeem and install games online. Titles released before January 2028 will continue to be available in their existing formats.
In a statement, Sony said the decision reflects changing consumer habits and the industry's transition to digital media.
“As consumer preferences and the broader entertainment industry continue to shift away from physical discs to digital, this is a natural direction for Sony Interactive Entertainment,” the company said.
The announcement follows Rockstar Games' confirmation that Grand Theft Auto VI will also launch without a physical disc, highlighting a broader industry move away from traditional game media.
The decision has drawn criticism from gamers and industry observers, who argue that abandoning physical copies could limit consumer rights, game preservation and the ability to resell, lend or collect games. Retailers also warned the move could significantly affect brick-and-mortar game stores that continue to rely on physical sales.
Sony said the policy will not affect games already released or scheduled for launch before January 2028. The company has not indicated whether it plans to introduce a system allowing users to transfer ownership of digitally purchased games in the future.
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