PS5 Users Facing Potential Shift to PC, Sony Responds

Sony's PC Port Strategy: No PS5 User Loss Concerns

Sony isn't concerned about losing PlayStation 5 (PS5) users to PC gaming, according to a company executive. This statement follows a recent presentation outlining Sony's PC publishing strategy.

Sony's foray into PC gaming began in 2020 with Horizon Zero Dawn. The company's commitment intensified after acquiring Nixxes Software, a PC porting specialist, in 2021. While PC ports expand reach and revenue, they theoretically weaken the PS5's unique selling proposition. However, Sony believes this isn't a significant risk. A company representative stated during a 2024 investor Q&A: "In terms of losing users to PCs, we have neither confirmed that any such trend is underway, nor do we see it as a major risk, so far."

PS5 Sales Remain Strong Despite PC Ports

This confidence is supported by PS5 sales figures. As of November 2024, 65.5 million PS5 units have been sold, comparable to the PS4's sales after its first four years (slightly over 73 million). Sony attributes the minor difference primarily to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, not the availability of titles on PC. The consistent sales across generations bolster Sony's view that PC ports minimally impact the PS5's appeal.

A More Aggressive PC Porting Approach

Sony intends to accelerate its PC port releases. In 2024, President Hiroki Totoki announced a more "aggressive" strategy, aiming to shorten the time between PS5 and PC launches. Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching on PC January 30th, only 15 months after its PS5 debut, exemplifies this shift. This contrasts with the over two-year exclusivity of Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

Beyond Spider-Man 2, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth arrives on Steam January 23rd. Several other high-profile PS5 exclusives remain unannounced for PC, including Gran Turismo 7, Rise of the Ronin, Stellar Blade, and the Demon's Souls remake.