Shawn Layden: Sony Can't Make PS6 Without Discs

Former Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios CEO Shawn Layden has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of launching the PlayStation 6 as an all-digital, disc-less console. In a conversation with Kiwi Talkz, Layden highlighted that while Xbox has managed to find success with this approach, PlayStation's extensive global market share makes such a move risky. He pointed out that PlayStation is the leading platform in approximately 170 countries, suggesting that going fully digital could alienate a significant portion of its user base.

Layden emphasized the importance of considering the diverse needs of PlayStation's global audience. He noted that certain demographics, such as users in rural areas or those in situations like traveling athletes and military personnel, rely heavily on physical media and offline gaming. He questioned how many of these groups Sony would be willing to move away from, indicating that the company is likely conducting research to determine the potential impact of a disc-less strategy.

The debate over digital-only consoles has intensified since the PlayStation 4 era, particularly following Xbox's introduction of digital-only models. Both Sony and Microsoft have released digital versions of their current consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, but Sony has maintained the option for users to upgrade their digital consoles with a separate disc drive. This flexibility reflects Sony's cautious approach to fully transitioning to a disc-less future.

The shift towards digital distribution is further evidenced by the declining sales of physical media and the increasing trend of games requiring an internet connection for installation, even when purchased on disc. Examples include Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows and EA's Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, which both necessitate an online connection to play, signaling a broader industry move away from traditional physical media.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the question remains whether Sony will eventually follow Xbox's lead and fully embrace a disc-less future with the PlayStation 6. Layden's insights suggest that Sony will need to carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risk of alienating a significant portion of its global market.