Sony vows to press on with discless plans, saying "digitalization is progressing" across all media despite heavy protest from players

Key Points:

• Sony has confirmed it will end the production and sale of physical PlayStation game discs by early 2028, citing the ongoing digitalization of content as the primary reason for the decision.
• CFO Lin Tao acknowledged the strong emotional responses from the gaming community, recognizing the sentimental value many players attach to physical games, but emphasized the company's commitment to moving cautiously toward a digital future.
• The announcement has sparked significant backlash, including organized protests like a PS5 'blackout' and petitions urging Sony to reconsider, with many fans expressing frustration across social media platforms.
• Recent issues such as a prolonged PlayStation Network outage have highlighted potential drawbacks of an all-digital ecosystem, intensifying criticism regarding Sony's increased market control and perceived anti-consumer practices.
• Despite the controversy, Sony remains firm on its digital strategy, signaling no intention to reverse its decision to phase out physical media.