Former PS Exec says killing PS5 discs makes sense
The debate over physical games is heating up, especially following Sony’s announcement that it will end support for PS5 game discs in 2028. For those who grew up with the tactile satisfaction of owning a physical copy, this shift feels less like a technical update and more like a cultural reckoning.
Ken Kutaragi, widely regarded as the “Father of PlayStation,” has weighed in on the conversation, offering insight into why fans cling to physical media. While he acknowledges that people feel they “own” a game when they buy it physically, he questions the necessity of this format in the modern era. “Nobody thinks physical media is necessary for a networked device like a smartphone, for example, because people feel that they will keep their content,” Kutaragi noted.
Despite this philosophical point, the commercial reality is complex. Sony continues to generate massive revenue from physical sales, with millions of games moving annually. In some regions, the reality is even more striking: sales of new games on the PS5 are more than 50% physical.
Yet, the overarching trend remains clear: consumers are increasingly leaning toward digital distribution, and this trajectory is expected to continue. When pressed on the decision to phase out discs, Kutaragi suggested that the move was less about technology and more about economics. “I don’t think it’s economically reasonable to continue to support discs. Maybe it’s a mentality issue,” he stated.
For the company, ending support for physical discs is framed as a “natural direction” as Sony adapts to evolving consumer trends. Industry analysts, however, often point to a deeper motivation behind the move, suggesting that the decision is deeply rooted in profitability and control.
This perspective is echoed across the gaming landscape. While Sony moves toward a digital future, competitors are taking different routes. For instance, Nintendo maintains its commitment to physical games, suggesting a different philosophy regarding ownership. Meanwhile, Microsoft has made its direction clear with its disc-to-digital program, and most observers expect Xbox to follow suit in eliminating physical media entirely.
Furthermore, Sony’s internal structure is also evolving. The company has integrated new talent, including experts from streaming companies like Gaikai, leading to a mindset where PlayStation is increasingly viewed not just as a game console, but as a “content terminal.” This internal shift, while streamlining operations, has naturally created some friction with dedicated game enthusiasts.
The transition from physical ownership to digital access is clearly underway, marking a significant pivot for the industry. Whether this is a matter of economic necessity or a change in how we define value, the future of gaming is undeniably moving toward the cloud.
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