Dismal PS5 disc sales may show PlayStation critics aren't buying physical games

Protesters of Sony’s decision to print fewer PS5 discs claim that there is still demand for Blu-ray-based titles. Even so, new Circana U.S. retail data may justify PlayStation’s shift to digital. Analyst Mat Piscatella revealed that only 7 physical games on the platform have generated more than 100,000 sales in 2026.

With the gaming giant making its unwelcome announcement on July 1st, Piscatella also provided more recent numbers. Just 2 releases available on PS5 discs sold more than 10,000 units for the week ending on July 11th.

Digital isn't as dominant everywhere

One important caveat to consider is that the PlayStation Store is especially popular in the U.S. In Europe, South America, and Japan, brick-and-mortar stores remain popular destinations for shoppers. In some countries, the lack of accessible broadband internet limits the appeal of digital games.

The Circana data may not reflect the global picture, but other statistics are depressing for case collectors. In the past fiscal year, Sony said that around 78% of software sales were digital purchases. That split grew to a more impressive 85% in the fourth quarter.

Unrelenting protests

It’s difficult to gauge what effect, if any, the outcry has had on PlayStation console and game revenue. Posters are bombarding its social media accounts with criticism, making it challenging to promote any new arrivals. So far, the company seems determined to press ahead with its move away from physical games.

Consumer advocates fear that the transition to digital games will result in less competition and higher prices. Studies show that boxed copies of PS5 games enjoy steeper discounts sooner after release. Even GTA 6 pre-orders have seen sales in countries including France, while the PS Store price is unchanged.

If the protestors have made an impact, it’s possible that overall sales will decline. Many buyers note that they predominantly rely on the PlayStation Store, but want to preserve the PS5 disc option. Insiders like Moore’s Law Is Dead lobby for Blu-ray production to continue, if only to support pricey collector’s editions. For now, some fans could choose to invest their gaming dollars elsewhere.