Sony Interactive Entertainment has confirmed that all new PlayStation games released beginning in January 2028 will be distributed exclusively in digital formats, marking the end of physical disc production for new titles. The company said the change reflects shifting consumer preferences as players increasingly move toward digital purchases through the PlayStation Store. While existing physical games will remain supported, future releases will no longer include disc-based versions.
The announcement has renewed attention on Nintendo’s Game-Key Card approach, which launched on Switch 2 with select titles including Pokémon Pokopia. The format requires players to download the full game while using a physical card as a license key, allowing retail distribution and resale. Although the system initially drew criticism from fans, Sony’s decision highlights how Nintendo’s hybrid model still preserves a physical retail presence compared to a fully digital future. The contrast underscores how both companies are adapting differently to the industry’s shift toward digital game distribution.
Source: PlayStation.Blog
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