Physical games are on the retreat. Sony’s current numbers leave no doubt: only 3 % of sales with games and network services come from data carriers, a decline of 6 % in 2020. So if you think the PS6 could save the classic medium, you should significantly reduce your expectations.
PS6: Removable drive only symbol policy?
According to reports, Sony plans to equip the PS6 with a removable drive. Fans of physical games see this a glimmer of hope: replacement easier, more flexible in use, theoretically continued access to your own collection, and not to forget: resale.
But Sony’s numbers tell a different story. Digital downloads, subscriptions and cloud gaming have been relying on the disc for years. Xbox has largely ticked off physical media, Nintendo relies on maps instead of data carriers – Sony works like the last bastion for physical games.
Slapping physical sales and platform focus
The Corporate Report 2025 shows that physical software is continuously shrinking. At the same time, the platform business-Playstation Plus, game access licenses and cloud offers are growing. Customers prefer play access instead of buying individual titles. Senior Vice President Sadahiko Hayakawa confirmed to investors: Sony moves the focus from hardware to community and platform models.
Even a removable drive cannot change that. The cost savings, flexibility and convenience of digital offers speak for themselves – those who still hoard discs today are increasingly nostalgic. Comparable to the music industry: CDs are almost completely replaced by streaming.
The PS6 may have a removable drive, but reality speaks a different language. Physical games are a leaking model and Sony will benevolently refer to the official PS5 drive as the last lifeline. Players should prepare for the classic disc on the withdrawal, and faster than many think.
