Sony Has Caused ‘Friction’ Between It and PlayStation Fans Over Disc Mess, Says PS1, PS2, PS3 Creator
Ken Kutaragi, who oversaw the launches of PlayStation, PS2 and PS3, says Sony’s decision to stop producing disc-based PlayStation games from January 2028 has created “friction” with long-time fans. He understands the company’s economic case as digital purchases grow, but says discs represent a sense of ownership for players.
Kutaragi also suggested Sony may increasingly view its consoles as “content terminals” rather than solely games systems. Sony has given no public sign it will reverse the decision, and fans continue to criticise it online, often using the slogan “No Disc, No Buy”. A recent investigation cited in the article found almost half of accounts posting about the backlash were fake, though frustration among fans remains.
- Kutaragi says Sony’s disc decision has caused friction with fans.
- Sony plans to stop making disc-based PlayStation games in January 2028.
- Discs represent ownership to many players, despite the shift to digital.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Sony can argue that shifting away from discs reflects how players increasingly buy and access games digitally, and that concentrating on digital distribution may better fit its business and the way it sees consoles developing. Kutaragi acknowledges this economic case, even as he notes the resulting tension with long-time fans.
The case against
Players can argue that a disc offers a clearer sense of ownership and gives them something tangible to keep, whereas a digital purchase may leave them more dependent on the platform and its services. Ending disc production risks alienating fans who value that form of access, and their objections deserve consideration even though some online accounts amplifying the backlash were found to be fake.