Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden believes Sony can't afford to make their next console purely digital-only, despite Xbox's success with this approach.
The Physical Media Debate Heats Up
During an interview with Kiwi Talkz, Layden explained that PlayStation's massive global reach creates unique challenges compared to Xbox's more concentrated market. "Xbox thrives in English-speaking regions," he noted, "but Sony dominates gaming in nearly 170 countries worldwide."
The industry veteran posed critical questions about accessibility: "What about gamers in rural Italy with spotty internet? Military personnel deployed overseas? Are we ready to leave these players behind?"
A Market At the Crossroads
Layden acknowledged PlayStation's inevitable research into consumer trends, predicting: "There will come a tipping point - some percentage of the market they'll feel comfortable abandoning." However, he emphasized PlayStation's uniquely broad audience makes full digital adoption particularly challenging.
The discussion reflects broader industry trends as physical game sales decline. Publishers increasingly treat discs as mere installation keys - Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows and EA's Star Wars Jedi: Survivor both mandate online connections despite physical releases.
Sony currently maintains flexibility with detachable disc drives for digital consoles ($700 PS5 Pro included). Yet as services like PlayStation Plus grow, many wonder when physical gaming will officially become obsolete.
The gaming landscape continues evolving rapidly - Sony's challenge lies in balancing innovation with inclusion as player habits and expectations shift.
