An online petition on Change.org has gathered over 125,000 signatures, urging Sony to reverse its decision to halt physical game disc production. The petition, driven by Jade Pearce, the owner of PNP Games Inc., highlights the importance of physical copies for gamers who prefer to own their games outright, trade, or lend them.

Pearce emphasizes the impact of Sony’s decision on local economies, including small businesses dependent on physical game sales and the wider infrastructure supporting disc production and distribution.

The petition advocates for preserving the option of physical game ownership beyond 2028, expressing concern that Sony’s shift to digital-only distribution will limit choices for gamers. The petition gained significant traction shortly after Sony’s announcement, with 40,000 signatures within the first 48 hours and now surpassing 125,000 supporters.

While online pressure has influenced Sony’s decisions in the past, such as reversing course on certain policies, the feasibility of changing the disc production strategy remains uncertain. Sony has already begun transitioning manufacturing plants away from disc production, signaling a commitment to digital distribution. However, reports suggest that disc production will continue for games released before 2027, albeit through a new ordering process.

Despite the declining demand for physical discs in favor of digital downloads, Sony still sold over 70 million physical discs in 2025. The shift towards digital distribution is evident, but a gradual transition may be more beneficial for the market and Sony’s hardware design team, who may need to revisit incorporating disc drives in future products.

The future of physical game discs remains uncertain as Sony navigates the evolving gaming landscape. The petition serves as a voice for consumers who value the tangible ownership experience and advocate for preserving physical game options alongside digital offerings.

Source: Change.org