Sony Interactive Entertainment announced on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, that it will discontinue physical game disc production for all new PlayStation games after January 2028. The decision, described as a response to 'shifting trends in consumer preference,' means that no PS5 games or future PS6 games (expected to launch in late 2027) will be released on disc beyond that date.
Sony Statement on the Transition
In a statement, Sony said: 'As consumer preferences and the broader entertainment industry continue to shift away from physical discs to digital, physical game disc production for all new games releasing on PlayStation consoles will be discontinued starting January 2028. Following this date, new games will be available on PlayStation Store and at retailers in digital formats only.' The company clarified that games released before January 2028 will not be affected.
Consumer Trends and Industry Shift
Sony attributed the move to a significant consumer preference for digital media over physical discs. 'This is a natural direction for Sony Interactive Entertainment to adapt to consumer trends as the general preference for digital media significantly outpaces physical discs. This transition will enable us to align more closely with how most of our community prefers to access and play games today,' the statement added.
The announcement follows Rockstar's recent confirmation that Grand Theft Auto VI, launching this November, will not be released on disc.
