PlayStation Store still blocks 62% of countries, as end of physical PS5 games approaches

The demise of PS5 discs in early 2028 may affect some gamers more than others. Buyers in a majority of countries can’t create PSN accounts. As a result, with fewer physical games available, they won’t be able to use the PlayStation Store as an alternative.

Ramifications of dying discs

As reported by TheGamer, Reddit has seen an increase in posts from supporters worried about the future of PlayStation. Bldngtrpdr resides in Georgia, one of around 122 nations blocked from PSN. Without the digital games sold on Sony’s marketplace, discs are vital to shoppers in the region.

The restrictions also impact SIE titles on Steam that require logins, with Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls as the latest example. For now, affected consumers often register accounts in other countries. Even so, to make PS Store purchases, individuals typically need a payment method tied to that country.

Another problem with the demise of physical games is that the Terms of Service expect users to enter accurate addresses. Although the company hasn’t commonly enforced the rule, it can choose to do so at any time. Opponents of the transition to digital also note that if PSN accounts are frozen, buyers could lose their entire catalog.

Does Sony care about PSN access?

Insiders speculate that the PS6 console may offer an external optical drive. Still, with new releases, Sony risks sacrificing sales from gamers in large parts of the globe. That said, approximately 70% of its revenue comes from North America and Europe. Georgia is an exception, but access is less of an issue in these regions.

PlayStation still has an opportunity to lighten PSN restrictions before it reduces PS5 disc production. Ideally, it would bring the network to more nations, removing the need for unofficially supported solutions. It remains a mystery why availability is so limited, but concerns over the lack of secure payment methods are one theory.

Protesters haven’t given up on convincing Sony to change its mind about embracing digital games exclusively. Regardless of where a buyer lives, a more dominant PlayStation Store could lead to less competition and higher prices.