Sony’s decision to end physical game discs for new PlayStation games in 2028 has sparked strong backlash from both players and retailers across the gaming community. Case in point: A petition railing against Sony’s controversial announcement is rapidly gaining steam. As of Wednesday afternoon, it has over 220,000 signatures, each urging Sony to reconsider its anti-disc strategy.
“We are not against digital. We are against digital being the only option,” the petition reads. “A large and passionate community still wants a real, physical game they own outright, and Sony is about to take that choice away.”
Petition creator Jade Pearce, who runs Canadian indie retailer PNP Games, launched the “Don’t Kill the Disc” campaign on July 1 to ask Sony to keep physical games as an option for the PlayStation 5 and the probable PlayStation 6. Within 48 hours, it had more than 40,000 signatures, largely thanks to gaming outlets and social media users. It continues to gain signatures with every passing minute.
The petition’s supporters say Sony’s plan hurts local game shops and shrinks long-term access for users, who are restricted by digital licensing. Many say discs give them a game they truly own, which they can lend, resell, and collect, rather than relying on platform accounts and online stores.
Though the campaign can’t force Sony to change course, it offers a clear message: fans aren’t ready to let go of physical media.
