Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot backs Sony's decision to phase out PS5 game disc production by January 2028, arguing the shift toward digital-only distribution mirrors PC gaming's evolution and could lower hardware costs industry-wide.

During an investor Q&A, Guillemot stated the transition resembles the PC market's transition to digital storefronts like Steam. "What we saw on the PC is that it helped to grow the market," he said. The Ubisoft boss believes removing disc drives from future PlayStation hardware could reduce manufacturing expenses, potentially making consoles cheaper for consumers.

Sony announced in September 2024 that disc production for PS5 games would cease by early 2028, though the company will continue manufacturing the console itself. The move aligns with the industry's broader shift toward digital distribution. PlayStation digital game sales already comprise over 80 percent of the platform's revenue, according to analyst data.

Guillemot's perspective differs sharply from consumer pushback. Players have voiced concerns about losing physical media ownership, used game markets, and permanent access to titles. Without physical discs, consumers depend entirely on Sony's servers and licensing agreements to maintain library access.

The PC gaming parallel only partially holds. Steam dominates PC distribution but faces competition from Epic Games Store and other platforms. PlayStation maintains a walled ecosystem where digital games remain locked to Sony's infrastructure. Console owners cannot legally resell or trade digital licenses, unlike physical discs.

For Ubisoft, digital-only distribution benefits publishers directly. Lower retail friction, reduced used game competition, and subscription service integration (like Game Pass) improve revenue capture. Whether consumers see hardware cost reductions remains uncertain. Manufacturers often pocket savings rather than pass them to buyers.

The 2028 timeline gives publishers and retailers nearly four years to transition inventory. However, gamers uncomfortable with digital ownership face a