A European Union commissioner has stated that the EU cannot prevent Sony from discontinuing physical game discs, provided that consumer rights are fully upheld. Sony's plan to end physical PlayStation games from 2028 has triggered petitions and industry backlash, but a reversal appears unlikely.
Sony's Disc Production Shift
Sony has already redirected its primary disc factory in Austria, and the upcoming PlayStation 6 is expected to be designed around an all-digital model. When asked about Sony's intentions, EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath told reporters in Strasbourg's European Parliament that the decision falls under commercial and contractual freedoms.
"It does come down to commercial and contractual freedoms, and companies are free to offer games and services in the manner that they see fit, provided that consumer rights are fully protected in line with national and EU law," McGrath said, as reported by The Mirror. He added that the EU considered a European citizens initiative on game availability after new editions are released, but no further action was taken.
Consumer Lawsuits and Pricing Concerns
Sony has faced multiple lawsuits over alleged unfair pricing on the PlayStation Store in recent years, which could intensify with the all-digital transition. In the Netherlands, Stichting Massaschade & Consument had its first hearing in a lawsuit seeking over €400 million (£341 million) in damages against Sony, though this case predates the all-digital announcement.
God of War Laufey Disc Confirmed
As a silver lining for physical media enthusiasts, Santa Monica Studio has confirmed that God of War Laufey will be released on disc. This confirms the God of War spin-off will launch in 2027, likely in the first half of the year according to insiders. God of War Laufey will be one of the last first-party PlayStation 5 games available on disc. The studio is also developing a God of War Trilogy Remake, though its release date remains unannounced. Naughty Dog's Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet also lacks a date but may serve as Sony's major Christmas 2027 title.
