Yesterday kicked off a weeklong protest via a #PSBlackout from gamers who want to express their frustrations with Sony’s decision to “pull the plug” on physical discs in 2028. This decision has been discussed ad nauseum from both ends of the table, and many, despite their feelings on Sony’s decision, believe that the protest is futile. However, I am here to argue that this blackout is important to execute no matter the outcome.
Square Enix’s recent numbers hadn’t helped the whole physical vs. digital debate, either. Earlier in August, it was reported that the bulk of their sales were digital (e.g. Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, Dragon Quest). More specifically, 90% of their game sales in the last financial quarterly report were digital. Of course, there are caveats to this data. For example, Square Enix considers Switch 2 Game Key Cards digital, and the Final Fantasy XIV: Evercold announcement also caused a surge in MMO division sales. On the flip side, Nintendo continues to champion physical sales. There was 63% of new physical sales on their platforms here in the United States this year so far.
So, what does this have to do with the discussion? The PS Blackout is more than punishing Sony for their decision to stop creating physical discs in 2028 and hoping that they’d reverse course. Because honestly, and as much as I hate to admit this, the odds of Sony changing their mind are slim. Lin Tao, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, doubled down on this decision after weeks of silence after the initial announcement. She stated that Sony continues to “move forward” with phasing out physical media. Then, shortly after the PS Blackout started, Sony just happened to release terms of use information—basically a slap in the face—that you do not own any of your digital purchases.
However, just because we may not be able to shake up a multi-billion-dollar company’s decision, the movement will cause a ripple effect in the industry. It can be a staunch warning to other companies and raise awareness. This outcry is more than just a bunch of old farts who want to hold their purchases in their hands, it is also an alarm over ethical digital ownership as well. The larger picture encompasses consumerism rights.
Also, major movements occur over a series of painful battles, and not over a singular protest. We can’t give up just because it “seems” hopeless. Since the Sony decision, we’ve seen signed petitions, active discussions within the community, and now the PS Blackout. Perhaps, the PS Blackout will inspire more people to vocalize their concerns as we gain momentum to protect physical media.
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