ⓘ Sony, Canva AI
Sony vinyl record player shown above PS5 game disc
Sony plans to reduce PS5 disc production in 2028, but still manufactures vinyl record players. A social media post about a turntable irked gamers already upset over the decision. They claim that, like with music, demand for the physical game format will continue for the foreseeable future.
Until now now, Sony Electronics had escaped the protests over PlayStation abandoning PS5 discs. However, a new social media post advertising a vinyl player caught the attention of critics. They believe that the company is hypocritical for promoting this alternative form of physical media.
Vinyl vs game discs
The PS-LX3BT turntable has modern perks like Bluetooth connectivity, but targets vinyl record collectors. Gamers immediately seized on the post, questioning why the manufacturer still caters to this audience. Does it play? argues that they represent a “small niche”, while physical games remain more mainstream.
The most liked replies call the promotion “ironic” and “tone deaf.” There are valid parallels between how the music and gaming industries have evolved. Streaming services like Spotify and digital music now dominate at the expense of CDs. Even so, despite the popularity of the PS Store, Sony earns significantly higher revenue from PS5 disc sales than from turntables.
On the other hand, unlike with game discs, vinyl has become more sought after over the past decade. Some music listeners prefer the tangible quality of records and the accompanying artwork. It’s also possible to sell or trade the items later on. As a result, many modern artists continue to release new albums and special editions in this format.
In its PlayStation blog announcement, the company explained that buyers gravitate toward digital games by a wide margin. Yet, even after it repurposes Blu-ray factories, the demand for an alternative is unlikely to vanish. Protesters say that it would be a mistake to ignore this sizable, albeit declining market.
A compromise for collectors?
Insiders like Moore’s Law Is Dead believe that Sony could still change its mind. Physical game production won’t end for older releases in early 2028, leaving the door open for collector’s editions of PS5 and PS6 titles.
It’s worth noting that the Sony Electronics division responsible for TVs and audio equipment is separate from PlayStation. The social media campaigns for these products are also likely run by a different team. Regardless, amid the current uproar, it may have been advisable to coordinate marketing efforts.
Adam Corsetti – Tech Writer – 1449 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.