Former PlayStation boss slams Sony's decision to kill discs

Sony's decision to phase out PlayStation discs from 2028 is already proving controversial, and now former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden has added his criticism to the growing backlash.

Speaking on The Expansion Pass podcast, Layden questioned whether abandoning physical games is really in PlayStation's best interests. While he acknowledged that digital downloads are more convenient, he argued that Sony risks alienating a dedicated group of players by treating physical ownership as something disposable.

Layden estimated that perhaps 80% of players prefer digital games, but warned that the remaining 20% are still important. These include collectors and longtime PlayStation fans who value having something tangible that they can keep, resell or simply put on a shelf.

More importantly, Layden challenged the very idea of digital ownership. If players cannot resell a game, he argued, are they actually buying it or merely paying for access to a digital licence?

That question strikes at the heart of Sony's controversial strategy. Physical discs may be less convenient than downloads, but they give players something they can retain independently of a company's servers and licensing decisions.

Layden also pointed to Sony's history of removing access to digital films as a reason for concern. If players have already seen digital purchases disappear, it is easy to understand why some might distrust an entirely digital future for games.

Sony may be betting that convenience will win over ownership. Layden's criticism suggests it could also come at the cost of the trust of its most dedicated players.