An unexpected reminder about digital ownership has been sent to PlayStation users, mere days before a planned boycott in response to Sony’s decision to phase out new PlayStation discs by 2028.
Users Confused Over Email Reminder
On 18th August, several PlayStation users received emails that reiterated the terms they had previously accepted. The message included full texts of the PlayStation Terms of Service, Code of Conduct, End User License Agreement (EULA), and Privacy Policy. Some users expressed surprise on platforms like Reddit, questioning why they received the reminder despite not having accessed their PS4 or PS5 for months.
The emails explicitly highlighted ownership details, noting, “The Software is licensed to you, not sold.” This means users are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license strictly for personal use and within specific terms, such as no unauthorised renting or modifying of games.
Digital Transition Sparks Backlash
This clarification coincides with the ongoing #PSBlackout campaign by the group DoesItPlay, urging a week-long boycott from 23rd to 30th August. Participants are encouraged to refrain from logging in, making purchases, or renewing subscriptions to protest Sony’s transition away from physical game discs.
Sony’s Rationale for Phasing Out Discs
In a recent earnings call, Sony confirmed its plan to end the production and sale of PlayStation game discs starting in early 2028. Speaking on the matter, Sony’s CFO Lin Tao acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding this shift but cited the broader trend of digitalisation as the primary driver. “Digitalisation is progressing not just for PlayStation, but for all content types,” Tao explained, underscoring the industry’s evolving landscape.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.