Former Blizzard president Mike Ybarra has voiced concerns over Sony's decision to cease production of physical PlayStation game discs by January 2028, emphasizing that players should not fear losing access to purchased games. Sony confirmed that all new PlayStation titles released from that date will be digital-only, available through the PlayStation Store and digital code retailers, while pre-2028 games will still be sold on discs. The company called the shift 'a natural direction' driven by changing consumer preferences.
Ybarra's Response to the Announcement
Reacting to the news, Ybarra said he was not surprised by the industry's trajectory but admitted feeling 'sad' that the transition arrived sooner than expected. Although the change would not personally affect him, he argued that future generations might miss out on experiences tied to physical games. 'What I personally don’t like is the Christmas mornings and Birthday parties for young kids,' Ybarra wrote. 'Having to open a game only to have to spend potentially hours downloading it… it’s a real bummer.'
Proposal for a 'Digital Promise'
Rather than urging Sony to continue disc production, Ybarra suggested that platform holders strengthen consumer confidence in digital ownership. He proposed a 'digital promise' to reassure players that their purchased games would remain accessible. 'We can’t live in a world of fear if our games will work in the future or not,' he stated. Ybarra also recommended simplifying digital game sharing and creating a marketplace for reselling digital games, calling a used digital game market 'a must.'
Call for Clear Communication
Ybarra concluded by urging platform holders to communicate their long-term digital strategies more clearly. 'Show us you have a plan for this transition and that you care about gamers. We will embrace the transition if you give us the confidence, trust, and freedom to enjoy the hobby we love,' he wrote. Sony's announcement follows reports that Grand Theft Auto VI will also lack a physical disc, even in its Ultimate Edition.
