Sony’s decision to kill off PlayStation discs could destroy the $7.2bn used game market, according to analysts
Sony has announced it will cease manufacturing PlayStation discs by January 2028, a decision that threatens the second-hand gaming market valued at $7.2 billion globally. According to analysis by Dataintelo, this market encompasses pre-owned games, console hardware, accessories, and peripherals. Projections suggest the market could grow to $13.8 billion by 2034, with consoles representing 42.3 percent of current revenue. North America dominates this sector, accounting for 36.8 percent of transactions.
Industry analysts have expressed serious concerns about the move’s ramifications. Michael Pachter of Wedbush Securities warned that the decision could be “the death knell for brick-and-mortar gaming stores,” highlighting the retail ecosystem’s reliance on physical game sales and trade-ins. The elimination of physical media directly impacts retailers and consumers who have traditionally relied on the ability to buy, sell, and trade used games—a practice that has enabled millions of gamers to access titles at reduced prices.
The industry reaction has been largely negative. While digital distribution continues to dominate the market, the used games sector remains significant, particularly for budget-conscious consumers and those seeking physical ownership. The decision also raises concerns about game preservation, as physical media has historically served as a safeguard against digital delisting and platform discontinuation.
For now, PlayStation disc production will continue until early 2028, but this timeline leaves little time for the second-hand market to adapt or for consumers to anticipate the transition away from physical media entirely.
Sources
- Sony’s decision to kill off PlayStation discs could destroy the $7.2bn used game market, according to analysts
- Analyst Says Sony Killing Physical PS5 Games “Dooms” Brick-And-Mortar Stores
- The Global Second-Hand Video Game Market Is Valued at $7.2 Billion, but Sony’s Decision to Kill PlayStation Discs Threatens to Destroy It, Analysts Say