Sony has announced plans to replace physical game discs with a digital "code-in-box" format for titles like *GTA 6*, as part of a broader shift toward digital content. This change, which will begin in 2028, aims to streamline retail operations and reduce reliance on physical media. The decision was confirmed by PlayStation, a division of Sony, and is expected to impact how games are sold in stores and through the PlayStation Store (notebookcheck.net).
The move has sparked strong reactions from fans, with many expressing concerns over the loss of physical media. However, Sony has reiterated its commitment to the transition, stating that it will proceed "cautiously" and that the shift will not negatively affect business (wccftech.com). The company also acknowledged the "strong views" of PlayStation users but emphasized that the digital format is part of a larger strategy to advance digitalization across all content types (news.google.com).
Sony’s CFO, Lin Tao, addressed the backlash during a recent earnings call, noting that the company has secured sufficient memory for PlayStation 5 hardware and remains confident in its long-term profitability (theverge.com). While the focus has been on hardware, the shift to digital games marks a significant change in how consumers access and purchase content. The transition is expected to affect not only *GTA 6* but also other first-party titles and third-party games sold through PlayStation.
