GameStop CEO Says PlayStation Abandoning Physical Games Is “Totally Irrelevant” To The Business

At this point, it is unheard of to meet someone who has not heard of the decision for physical games at PlayStation. That in 2028, it will dismiss further production of new titles for the platform. With tangible ownership on a timer now, the firm has already proceeded with shifting operations at one major production facility in Austria to commence mass production for new components starting next year.

Additionally, it is evident that Sony is committed to the decision. As per Jason Schreier, the firm is to maintain its course for a digital future as the losses dropping physical over going digital-only is worth the sacrifice. The maneuver also revealed to also impact marketing made with the platform as select titles will be met with a wave of angry fans with discourse building on social media pinned at PlayStation with these games in the crossfire.

Best worded by Niko Partners’ Daniel Ahmad, he said that the decision is to minimize the second-hand market for complete profit control for Sony. “It is essentially ending the used market for PS6 software and ensuring all software sold is high margin and they capture a %.” So retailers will definitely feel the pressure when the decision is in effect.

However, GameStop does not appear to be fazed by the decision. In fact, he denounces any concern that could be inflicted onto the company. When speaking to Bloomberg, CEO Ryan Cohen expressed that it is not for GameStop to show any worry towards. “It doesn’t matter at all. It is totally, totally irrelevant,” Cohen said. 

And honestly it shouldn’t the current business model GameStop is in. While in the name, games only account for 10 percent of gross profit (thanks @ZhugeEX). And Cohen has remained vocal on that decision for some time. In May 2025, he stated that “now there’s a big focus on trading cards- we’re doing grading in a bunch of stores and we’re selling a lot of trading cards in sports & TCG.” You can read the full report by heading here.

Are you surprised by the response from GameStop leadership?

Source: Bloomberg