Report: PlayStation Users Show Trend In Purchasing Expensive Versions Of New Releases, 2026 Physical Metrics Shared

A conversation hard to avoid surrounding PlayStation currently is the shift to a digital-only future. By 2028, the platform will no longer be producing physical releases for new titles. To further put a nail in the coffin, it is reported that a big manufacturing plant in DACH territory is already adapting to new equipment & training to kick off mass production by 2027.

Additionally, signs of the PlayStation firm slowing on this decision or even responding to the ongoing outcry does not appear likely. Sony is very apparent to stick to the maneuver and absorb whatever losses from the decision which still does not outweigh the greater incline in digital purchases. Another step in the plan is already being executed in Latin America: regional pricing is preparing to go live next month which enables pricing for local currencies and potentially increase how much new releases will be.

Recently, it was reported by Circana analyst Mat Piscatella that sales have stagnated for physical releases. “2 PlayStation video games sold more than 10k physical units in the US during week ending July 11, 2026. 7 have sold more than 100k physical units year-to-date.” In addition, Rhys Elliott of Alinea Analytics did disclose the seven games which you can view in the graphic below:

Doing the math in converting the physical percentages reveals EA Sports FC 26 sold 612,000 units; Resident Evil Requiem sold 945,000 units; 007 First Light sold 420,00 units; Crimson Desert sold 378,100 units; Ghost of Yotei sold 424,800 units. Both Arc Raiders & Forza Horizon 5 did not provide statistics on its physical sales, but according to the trend implicates 2026 sales did exceed 100K units for the pair as well.

And while digital is the majority, so is purchasing premium versions of new releases. In a report from TweakTown, it was revealed that multiple markets across the PlayStation Store are also showing a trend for increased spending on titles like Grand Theft Auto VI & Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. Other applicable titles are Halo: Campaign Evolved, NHL 27, Marvel’s Wolverine, and Madden NFL 27.

“The industry’s push towards higher-priced games has apparently worked, as data suggests that gamers are more willing to buy higher-priced editions of video games when given the option,” the report reads. And this is a clear illustration Sony is intending to leave with the most in its pockets from its consumer base. Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier elaborated on this greatly which you can read more on by heading here.

Are you surprised by this update on user activity for PlayStation purchasers?