A recent “Only on PS5” promo video on the IGN and Sony YouTube channels has sparked controversy: gamers launched a #PSBlackout boycott from August 23rd to 30th due to the company’s plan to phase out physical discs starting in January 2028.
The 30-second video was intended to showcase the PlayStation 5’s robust lineup of exclusives. The promo featured teasers for Marvel’s Wolverine (released September 15th, 2026), God of War Laufey (released February 16th, 2027), and footage of Saros, Gran Turismo 7, and Astro Bot. However, the pompous voiceovers about battling gods were ignored. The comments section became a battleground.
Why PlayStation fans are boycotting Sony?
-
Disc phasing: Since the summer of 2026, the company has been on course to completely phase out discs by January 2028.
-
Digital Rules: Mailings explicitly inform users that purchasing from the PS Store only grants a revocable license.
-
#PSBlackout protest: From August 23rd to 30th, players are urged to completely abandon online play and all transactions.
-
Management’s reaction: Sony CFO Lin Tao remains composed and declares there is no harm to business.
The gaming giant is confidently pushing digital, ignoring the rebellion. Against the backdrop of PS’s 125 million active users, the week-long downtime looks like a minor setback, not a turning point.
