Shawn Layden Warns Sony Against Disc-less PS6

Former Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios CEO Shawn Layden has expressed his doubts about Sony launching the PlayStation 6 as an all-digital, disc-less console. In a discussion with Kiwi Talkz, Layden highlighted that while Xbox has successfully embraced this approach, Sony's extensive global market share would make such a move risky. "I don't think Sony can get away with it now," Layden stated. He pointed out that Xbox's digital success is largely concentrated in English-speaking countries like the U.S., Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Layden emphasized that Sony, being the leading platform in approximately 170 countries, has a responsibility to consider the implications of a disc-less transition on its diverse user base. He raised concerns about users in regions like rural Italy, where reliable internet connectivity might not be available, and other groups such as traveling athletes or military personnel who rely on physical media for gaming. "Sony's market is globally so huge, I think it would be hard for them to go fully disc-less," Layden remarked, suggesting that Sony is likely researching the potential impact on various market segments.

The debate over digital-only consoles has intensified since the PlayStation 4 era, particularly following Xbox's introduction of digital-only models. Both Sony and Xbox have released digital versions of their current consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, but Sony has maintained the option for users to upgrade their digital consoles with a separate disc drive. This flexibility contrasts with Xbox's full embrace of digital services like Game Pass, prompting speculation about the future of physical media in gaming.

The trend towards digital distribution is evident as sales of physical media continue to decline, and some major publishers release games that require an internet connection even when purchased on disc. Examples include Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows and EA's Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, both of which necessitate online installation. Additionally, what was once provided as a second disc is now often delivered as downloadable content, further reducing the reliance on physical media.