PlayStation Is Heading Next in a 'Natural Direction'

Sony is putting an expiration date on PlayStation game discs. The company said on Wednesday that, beginning in January 2028, all newly released games for its consoles will be available only in digital form, either via the PlayStation Store or through retailers selling download codes, reports CNBC. In a blog post, Sony framed the shift as a response to player behavior, saying digital purchases now "significantly" outpace physical copies and calling the move a "natural direction." Games released on disc before 2028 won't be affected, and existing physical titles will still work.

"This transition will enable us to align more closely with how most of our community prefers to access and play games today," Sony wrote, adding, "We remain committed to delivering a world-class gaming experience to our fans." The Verge notes that a similar recent announcement that the physical packaging for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI will include only a download code inside spurred backlash among gamers, with some noting that such a move makes it harder for players to swap games and deprives them of being able to resell the game when they tire of it.