Nippon Ichi CEO Signals Potential Compromise on Sony's 2028 Disc Phase-Out

Key points

• Sony announced in July 2026 that it will stop manufacturing physical discs for new PlayStation games starting in January 2028, shifting entirely to digital formats.
• Nippon Ichi Software CEO Kenzo Saruhashi stated at PAX West that his company is in 'discussions' with Sony and believes they are hearing significant customer feedback.
• Saruhashi indicated that while a 'code in the box' format is a possibility, the outcome of these discussions could change, suggesting potential compromises for limited editions.
• Leaker Moore's Law Is Dead claims Sony sent a lengthy survey to game developers asking for feedback on the physical media strategy, hinting at a possible reversal or adjustment.
• PM Studios CEO Michael Yum described the decision as 'sad and devastating' but noted the company is adapting by focusing on premium digital bundles and AA games to maintain physical-like collectibility.

Background

Sony's decision to end physical disc production for new games by January 2028 has sparked widespread controversy since its announcement in July 2026. Previous coverage noted that Sony's Thalgau plant would reduce 2028 disc production by approximately 10%, not 90%, as initially misreported. The move aligns with the upcoming PS6 launch and a broader industry shift toward digital ownership, though it has raised concerns about secondhand markets, preservation, and consumer choice.

How outlets are covering it

Kotaku reports that Nippon Ichi Software is optimistic about finding a compromise, with CEO Kenzo Saruhashi suggesting Sony is responsive to feedback. Wccftech cites leaker Moore's Law Is Dead, who claims Sony is surveying developers to gauge the impact of the disc phase-out, potentially signaling a softening stance. GamesIndustry.biz highlights PM Studios' pragmatic adaptation, with CEO Michael Yum acknowledging the loss of physical media but emphasizing the continued viability of digital sales and premium bundles. PlayStation.Blog's official statement frames the move as a natural adaptation to consumer trends, though it faced intense backlash from users who view it as an anti-consumer decision that removes choice and ownership.

Why it matters

The potential compromise between Sony and major publishers like Nippon Ichi could set a precedent for how the industry handles the transition to digital-only releases. If Sony allows limited physical exceptions or adopts 'code in the box' models, it could mitigate the backlash from collectors and consumers who value tangible ownership. This decision also impacts the secondhand market and the long-term preservation of games, with significant implications for both publishers and players.

What to watch

Sony is expected to respond to the developer survey and ongoing discussions with publishers in the coming months. The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether physical discs are entirely phased out in January 2028 or if exceptions are made for limited editions and special releases. Publishers like Nippon Ichi and PM Studios are likely to continue adapting their strategies, potentially shifting toward digital-first models with premium physical components.