Sony Warns on PS5 User Loss Concern

Sony's PC Port Strategy: No PS5 User Loss Concerns

Sony isn't concerned about losing PlayStation 5 (PS5) users to PC gaming, according to a company executive. This statement emerged during a recent discussion of Sony's PC publishing strategy. Despite releasing first-party titles on PC, starting with Horizon Zero Dawn in 2020 and accelerating after acquiring Nixxes Software in 2021, Sony sees minimal risk of significant user migration.

PS5 Sales Remain Strong

This confidence is supported by PS5 sales figures. As of November 2024, 65.5 million PS5 units have been sold, closely mirroring the PS4's sales trajectory within its first four years (over 73 million). Sony attributes the slight difference primarily to PS5 supply chain constraints during the pandemic, rather than competition from PC ports. The sustained console sales suggest PC releases haven't significantly impacted the PS5's market position.

The company executive stated explicitly: "In terms of losing users to PCs, we have neither confirmed that any such trend is underway, nor do we see it as a major risk, so far."

A More Aggressive PC Porting Approach

Sony's commitment to PC ports is not only continuing but intensifying. In 2024, Sony President Hiroki Totoki announced a more "aggressive" approach, aiming to reduce the time lag between PS5 and PC releases. Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching on PC January 30th, just 15 months after its PS5 debut, exemplifies this strategy. This contrasts sharply with the over two-year exclusivity period for Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

Beyond Spider-Man 2, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth arrives on Steam January 23rd. Several other high-profile PS5 exclusives remain unannounced for PC, including Gran Turismo 7, Rise of the Ronin, Stellar Blade, and the Demon's Souls remake. The future will reveal the long-term impact of Sony's evolving PC strategy.