Ex-PlayStation Boss Calls Sony’s End of Discs ‘Kind of Sad’
▼ Summary
– PlayStation plans to stop producing physical disc releases for its games starting in 2028, despite fan backlash.
– Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden expressed sadness about the decision but noted it was not made impulsively.
– Layden prefers buying physical copies for certain games like God of War for the full package, while buying digital for others like Call of Duty.
– Layden acknowledged the decision was likely based on extensive financial analysis, which he does not dispute.
– Hideo Kojima and other physical game collectors have also expressed grief over the move, though God of War Laufey will still get a physical release before 2028.
Former PlayStation chief Shawn Layden has weighed in on Sony’s decision to end physical disc production for its games starting in 2028, calling the move “kind of sad” from a fan’s perspective. While the announcement has sparked widespread frustration among gamers, Layden offers a more measured take, acknowledging the business rationale behind the shift while mourning the loss of tangible media.
In a recent conversation, Layden described the decision as “dramatic” but not impulsive. He pointed to extensive financial analysis that likely drove Sony’s choice, noting, “I won’t take issue with that, because I’m not a finance guy.” Yet, speaking strictly as a fan, he admitted the change tugs at his heartstrings. Layden reflected on his own collection, which blends digital and physical games. He prefers digital for titles like Call of Duty, but for a franchise like God of War, he wants the box, the art, and the disc on his shelf.
Layden is far from alone in his sentiment. Esteemed game designer Hideo Kojima has also expressed sorrow over the end of discs, joining a chorus of physical game collectors who feel the loss deeply. The move underscores a broader industry trend toward digital-only distribution, but for many, the tactile experience of owning a physical copy remains irreplaceable.
On a positive note, Layden will still get his wish for a physical copy of God of War: Laufey. Santa Monica Studio has confirmed the title will release before the 2028 deadline, offering a small reprieve for collectors. As Sony pushes forward, the debate over digital versus physical continues, with fans like Layden hoping the transition doesn’t erase the joy of holding a game in their hands.
(Source: Kotaku)
