PlayStation's shift to digital-only games sparks backlash in Spain

PlayStation's announcement that it will cease producing disc versions of new games for its consoles from January 2028 has ignited a strong reaction from the Spanish gaming community, particularly from retailers and distributors who champion the physical format. The move signifies a complete transition to digital-only releases through the official PlayStation Store.

Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) framed the shift as a "natural evolution" in response to changing consumer trends. This aligns with the PlayStation 5's launch in 2020, which offered both a disc-drive version and a cheaper digital-only model. Industry analysts anticipate that the upcoming PlayStation 6, expected after 2028, will likely be a digital-only console.

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They want us to believe that this is a natural evolution, but we believe that the future should not be built by eliminating options, but by expanding them. Digital and physical can coexist; in fact, they have been doing so for years.

However, retailers like Game España and distributors such as Meridiem have voiced strong opposition. Game España argued in a social media post that the future should expand options, not eliminate them, stating, "Digital and physical can coexist; in fact, they have been doing so for years." They highlighted the loss of collecting, trading, and special editions that the disappearance of physical media entails. Meridiem echoed this sentiment, pledging to "resist" as long as players value physical collections and the tactile experience of holding a game disc. The announcement has also raised concerns about the long-term preservation of video games.

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As long as there is a single player who values having their collection on the shelf, as long as there is someone who prefers to feel a physical edition in their hands, as long as our community continues to support and believe in our work, Meridiem will resist.