PlayStation owners are organizing a week-long "economic and gameplay blackout" in August to protest Sony's decision to end disc production for new PlayStation games in 2028. The protest, dubbed "PSBlackout," was announced by the game preservation and consumer rights group DoesItPlay.
From August 23 to August 30, participants are urged to refrain from logging into any PlayStation platforms, playing games, or purchasing content. DoesItPlay stated that PlayStation has become increasingly disconnected from its community through actions such as closing studios, pursuing a live-service strategy, canceling fan events, neglecting PS VR2, and ignoring requests for franchise returns, with the end of physical discs serving as the final catalyst.
"Sony wants to abandon fans? Let's give them a small taste of their own medicine!" the group posted on X, formerly Twitter. "Together with other creators we call for a 1 week #PSBlackout in August. No logins, no play sessions, no purchases on any of Sony's platforms."
The organizers believe this approach, focusing on abstaining from logins and purchases, will have a minimal impact on publishers and developers while still allowing players to voice their concerns. This strategy aims to directly affect Sony's revenue, as the company has largely ignored public outcry on social media.
The "Don't Kill The Disc" petition has seen a significant surge in support, growing from approximately 120,000 signatures in early July to over 345,000 by late July, indicating widespread dissatisfaction among the player base.