Disgaea creator Sohei Niikawa has criticised Sony’s stated move away from producing and selling physical games, arguing that removing discs undermines the purpose of dedicated console hardware. He acknowledged the commercial logic but said physical copies create meaningful connections between players and creators, such as fans bringing games for signing at events.

Speaking at Anime Expo 2026, Niikawa said that if PlayStation eliminates physical packages, consoles might as well be replaced by televisions and fully digital delivery. Sony has reportedly shown no sign of reversing the decision despite consumer-rights concerns and online backlash. Niikawa is now promoting his new strategy RPG, Demons’ Night Fever, due in 2026 for PS5, Switch and PC.