Sega president Shuji Utsumi has voiced his support for physical media, a stance that contrasts with PlayStation's planned transition to an all-digital future by 2028. Utsumi stated that while digital distribution is undeniably crucial, especially with the increasing number of PC players, the value of physical discs remains significant.
In an interview with Famitsu, Utsumi explained that a digital shift is essential for full game releases on consoles and PCs. He highlighted the expanding PC market, noting that many individuals who may not have widespread console access still engage with games on PC. To cultivate this growing segment, Utsumi believes strengthening digital initiatives is key, suggesting a need for greater digital consciousness and a global outlook.
Drawing from Sega's history as a former hardware provider, Utsumi noted that the company learned valuable lessons from its time in hardware development. This experience appears to inform Sega's current position on physical media. "We were originally a platform provider, and of course, we still value the culture of physical media," Utsumi said. "Rather than completely abandoning that, we are currently challenging ourselves to shift so that we can think about and act on the important aspects of digital media in parallel."
This perspective comes as Sony's decision to phase out physical media has drawn considerable attention and concern from consumers. Many have raised questions about potential impacts on consumer rights, with some initiating petitions urging PlayStation to reconsider. However, Sony has so far remained firm in its stance.
Other industry figures have also weighed in on the discussion. Sohei Niikawa, creator of the Disgaea series, has suggested that if PlayStation completely abandons physical media, it should also discontinue its hardware offerings.