Physical media are disappearing. Video games are next

Sony’s decision to transition PlayStation to an all-digital format by 2028 signals a significant shift in the gaming landscape, raising concerns over consumer rights and media preservation. Kelsey Lewin, a used game store owner and video game historian, argues that removing physical discs creates a digital monopoly where Sony controls pricing and proprietary media production without competition from used markets. While Sony claims 80% of sales are digital, this figure is misleading as it includes small digital-only titles; for major releases, the split remains closer to 50-50. This shift threatens the historical record, as 87% of classic games are already out of print, and digital-only ecosystems make library archiving and cross-platform access nearly impossible. Ultimately, the move strips players of the ability to resell, lend, or truly own their purchases, prompting a renewed interest in physical media among younger generations seeking tangible ownership.