Player backlash against Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) is escalating following the company's announcement that it will cease producing physical discs for new PlayStation games starting January 2028. Beyond the widespread criticism on social media platforms, a Change.org petition urging Sony to preserve physical game options has now amassed over 180,000 signatures.
Titled "Don't Kill Discs: Tell Sony to Keep PlayStation Physical Games," the petition was initiated by Jade Pearce, CEO of a Canadian independent game retailer. On the petition page, Pearce argues that a full transition to digital-only isn't merely a change in distribution format; it will profoundly affect player ownership, physical collections, and the myriad jobs that underpin the game retail sector.
Pearce asserted that "a disc is the only way you truly own a game. It's not the same as a download code in a box; that's just a digital license in a plastic case. You don't own it; you're just renting access that can be revoked." He further highlighted past instances where over 500 purchased movies were removed from PlayStation accounts due to expired licensing agreements, underscoring that digital content does not guarantee permanent ownership.
The petition also highlights that physical games support an entire industry, from independent game stores and the second-hand market to logistics and related small businesses, all of which could be quietly erased with a complete shift to digital.
Pearce stressed, "We are not against digital versions; we are against digital versions becoming the only option for players."
As of this report, the petition has amassed 169,003 signatures. Former Blizzard executive Mike Ybarra has also urged game companies to offer a "digital promise," ensuring players can always access their purchased games. Hideo Kojima previously warned that a fully digital future would be "terrifying."
Adding to the growing concern, Rockstar Games recently confirmed that the physical boxed edition of "GTA 6" will not contain a disc, instead including only a download code. This revelation, coming shortly before Sony's announcement, has further intensified player anxiety regarding the potential disappearance of physical games.