A petition aiming to preserve physical media on PlayStation consoles has gained significant momentum, surpassing 160,000 signatures. The movement, titled “Don’t Kill the Disc: Tell Sony to Keep Physical PlayStation Games,” was launched by Jade Pearce, the CEO of a Canadian independent game retailer, following Sony’s announcement that they will cease production of physical discs for new games beginning in January 2028.
The core of the protest centers on the distinction between physical ownership and digital licensing. “A disc is a real game you own… a box with only a download code is not the same thing,” Pearce stated. The petition argues that digital-only models essentially force players to rent access to games, which can be revoked at any time. Supporters point to recent incidents, such as the removal of over 500 movies from user libraries following the expiration of licensing deals, as proof that digital purchases lack long-term security.
The Impact on Industry and Ownership
Beyond the concerns of individual players, the petition highlights the economic consequences of the shift. Pearce emphasized that physical games support a wide network of small businesses and industry jobs that would be erased by an all-digital transition. “We are not against digital. We are against digital being the only option,” the petition reads, calling on Sony to maintain physical choices for the next generation of gamers.
The pushback comes at a time when the industry is already moving toward digital-only packaging. Rockstar Games recently confirmed that there are no plans to include actual discs in physical editions of GTA 6, with boxes instead containing only a download code. This trend has drawn criticism from prominent industry figures. Former Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra has publicly urged companies to establish a “digital promise” to ensure players maintain access to their libraries, while Hideo Kojima has described the shift toward a digital-only future as a “frightening” prospect.
Public and Professional Backlash
Sony’s announcement has been met with widespread disapproval, with the company's social media posts regarding the change facing intense scrutiny. As the 2028 deadline approaches, the debate over game preservation continues to grow. Preservationists have warned that as stores for older consoles like the PS3 and Vita close, piracy may eventually become the only viable option for gamers to access their collections.
Sony has already begun adjusting its infrastructure for this future, including a $35 million investment to repurpose a disc-manufacturing facility. As the community continues to mobilize, the Change.org petition remains a focal point for those seeking to maintain the ability to own their games outright.