Key facts
- PlayStation founder Ken Kutaragi called fan anger over the discontinuation of physical game discs a "mentality issue."
- Sony plans to cease production of game discs by 2028.
- A "Don't Kill the Disc" petition has garnered over 385,000 signatures.
- Industry veterans claim publishers push for disc removal to increase profit margins and eliminate game resale.
PlayStation founder Ken Kutaragi has dismissed fan outrage over Sony's decision to stop producing physical game discs by 2028, characterizing the anger as a "mentality issue." Kutaragi stated that while he understands the desire to "own" games, physical media is no longer necessary for networked devices. He suggested that the push to eliminate discs is not economically reasonable. This stance comes as Sony faces significant backlash, including a petition with over 385,000 signatures and criticism from former executives like Shawn Layden, who called the move "spreadsheeted." Industry insiders like Robert Bowling argue that publishers are the primary drivers behind discontinuing discs, seeking to increase profit margins and eliminate the game resale market. Chris Heatherly believes Sony has misjudged its audience by not engaging in dialogue, leading to feelings of being "used and abused."