Former Sony head doesn't believe in PlayStation's digital future

Former head of Sony Interactive Entertainment Shawn Layden called PlayStation's future without physical discs "depressing," but said the situation can still be remedied.

Sony will stop releasing games on discs starting January 1, 2028. The decision caused dissatisfaction among players. Layden had previously also criticized the possible release of PS6 without an optical drive.

In an interview with Game, Layden stated that physical editions could be released by third-party companies:

"Unless they decide or define a way to license some of these bespoke disc manufacturers, there's no way that's going to happen."

According to Layden, physical media is extremely important for players:

"I think physical media is extremely important and key. One of the things that makes us gamers, and also one of the core mechanics of games since the very beginning of this medium, is collecting different things."

At the same time, Sony has not yet confirmed that PS6 will not support physical media. The company's CFO, Lin Tao, stated that Sony understands the players' reaction and does not plan to change its decision.