EU Lacks Authority to Mandate Sony’s Production of Physical Games, According to Consumer Rights Commissioner

If you were hoping the European Union would step in to halt Sony’s plan to cease production of new physical PlayStation games starting in 2028, there’s some disappointing news. An EU commissioner has stated that companies are “free” to distribute games as they choose, as long as they stay within legal boundaries.

Earlier this month, Sony revealed its intention to stop printing physical Blu-ray discs for new video games released in 2028 and beyond. While physical PlayStation titles will still be available for a while, it’s evident that Sony is transitioning to a fully digital future, regardless of the outcry from fans and celebrities. Some fans had hoped that the EU, known for holding companies accountable in the past, might intervene to prevent Sony’s shift to an all-digital model. However, according to Michael McGrath, the EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, that’s unlikely.

As reported recently, McGrath addressed reporters in Strasbourg’s European Parliament and was asked about Sony’s plans to end disc production. He clarified that the EU lacks the authority to intervene.

“It does come down to commercial and contractual freedoms,” McGrath explained. “Companies are free to offer games and services in the manner that they see fit, provided that consumer rights are fully protected in line with national and EU law.”

McGrath also touched on the EU’s stance regarding the Stop Killing Games movement. Last month, the EU Commission stated it cannot enact laws or regulations to ensure game publishers maintain servers or provide alternatives for playing games after their online services are shut down. Instead, the Commission plans to collaborate with the gaming industry and other stakeholders to develop a code of conduct for video game preservation.

For now, it appears that Sony’s strategy to phase out physical games in favor of a digital-only approach is set to proceed as planned.