PlayStation has announced that from January 2028, new games will only be released digitally, with physical discs to become a thing of the past. This move comes just days after Rockstar Games similarly announced plans for Grand Theft Auto VI.

The decision reflects consumer trends towards digital media and marks a significant shift in gaming culture. However, it has sparked controversy, with some critics arguing that disc-free games undermine consumer rights and make it harder to share or resell titles.

Gaming journalist Vikki Blake described the move as a 'body blow' to consumer rights, citing concerns about game conservation and affordability. Meanwhile, Lootbox Gaming, an independent retailer in Delaware, has expressed strong opposition, calling it an attack on gamers, collectors, developers, publishers, distributors and retailers globally.

Despite this push towards digital, Sony insists that the move will not affect existing games released before 2028. The company also faces criticism for removing over 500 films and TV shows from PlayStation Store users’ collections without compensation, citing an end to its agreement with StudioCanal.