PlayStation fans initiated a week-long boycott of the platform, starting August 23, 2026. The protest targets Sony's decision to cease physical game disc production by 2028. The campaign, named #PSBlackout, urges players to avoid logging into the PlayStation Network, playing games, or making purchases during the protest.
Sony emailed PlayStation users, coinciding with the boycott's start. The email reminded users that digital game purchases grant a software license, not direct game ownership. Observers highlighted this communication's timing with the user protest over physical media and digital ownership rights.
The protest reflects player dissatisfaction regarding game preservation and the resale market. Commentators expressed skepticism about the boycott's potential impact. They noted the boycott occurs during a quiet week with no major game releases. This timing might limit its influence on Sony's strategic shift to an all-digital future.