In a significant shift for the gaming landscape, PlayStation has revealed plans to phase out physical discs for its consoles, a transition set to commence in January 2028. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the much-anticipated launch of GTA 6, which will also be available exclusively in digital format for pre-orders. As the console industry edges toward a digital-only future, this move marks a pivotal moment, particularly for collectors of physical media and enthusiasts of pre-owned games.
For many, this development may feel like a loss, especially for those who cherish the tactile experience of owning physical copies. However, it’s worth noting that PC gamers have largely adapted to a digital-centric environment, with most modern PCs lacking disc drives altogether. For those still inclined to use physical media, specific PC cases, such as Fractal Design’s Pop series, are now required to accommodate traditional CD drives.
GOG lets you play games forever, as long as you have the files installed
In the realm of PC gaming, GOG stands out as a compelling alternative to platforms like Steam, primarily due to its commitment to game preservation. Unlike other launchers that enforce Digital Rights Management (DRM) by requiring users to log into their accounts before accessing games, GOG offers a DRM-free experience. This feature is particularly advantageous for single-player titles, allowing gamers to maintain ownership of their purchased content.
Even if a game vanishes from the GOG storefront, it never leaves your library. Exactly as digital ownership ought to be.— GOG.COM (@GOGcom) July 1, 2026
Interestingly, GOG’s recent message on social media coincided with PlayStation’s announcement, underscoring the relevance of its approach in this evolving digital landscape. With GOG, even if a game is removed from the store, players retain access to it as long as it is installed on their devices. This model allows users to create personal backups on physical media, as no internet connection is necessary for gameplay. Furthermore, GOG’s Galaxy Launcher is not required for offline play, although online multiplayer experiences may vary based on individual game infrastructure.
As the gaming world transitions into a predominantly digital era, the likelihood of PlayStation adopting a similar DRM-free model remains uncertain. Nevertheless, GOG’s philosophy on digital ownership presents an intriguing perspective on how gamers might navigate this new chapter in console gaming.
