Sony has clarified its intentions regarding its disc production, revealing that its last discmaking plant will reduce production by only 10 percent by 2028, contrary to earlier reports of a drastic 90 percent cut. This adjustment in plans indicates a slower transition away from disc production than initially anticipated.
Revised Disc Production Plans
Although Sony remains on track to cease producing new video game discs by January 2028, recent insights show that the reduction in output at their Thalgau plant will be far less severe. According to a Sony DADC spokesperson, earlier reports of a 90 percent cut were incorrect; the actual decrease will be a modest 10 percent.
Continued Disc Usage
Part of the reason for this ongoing production could be Sony’s decision to allow re-orders for existing PlayStation disc games beyond the 2028 deadline. This may contribute to the extended life of disc production facilities, despite the phased-out release of new physical games.
Uncertain Future of Game Ownership
While discs may linger longer than expected, the landscape for video game ownership continues to change. Issues such as the lack of major publishers participating in digital conversion initiatives and Sony’s argument undermining traditional ownership concepts, citing that ownership of game copies cannot logically coexist, further complicate the situation.
Employee Transition and Training
Questions remain about the restructuring and employee training at the Thalgau plant. While a July report from ORF Austria suggested that staff are being retrained for microlens production, Sony has not provided further information to confirm these changes
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.