'Physical Books, But Not Physical Games?' — PlayStation Book Announcement Prompts Confusion Over Sony's Physical Media Stance

Preorders have opened for PlayStation: The First 30 Years, a physical book honoring the gaming giant’s tenured history, but fans aren't exactly in a celebratory mood. The book’s announcement comes as Sony faces continued criticism for its decision to cut disc production, prompting confusion over the new physical media release and an influx of “No Disc, No Buy” replies.

The book itself is a collaboration between PlayStation and Read-Only Memory, a UK-based publisher focused on “premium” gaming and world-building books. A widely available Standard edition is listed at $125, while a Deluxe Edition, listed at $325, will only be available in 1994 copies. Both editions are now up for preorder exclusively from Read-Only Memory, shipping this November.

According to the official listing, the 400-page book “is the definitive visual chronicle of Sony’s world-changing videogame console, marking its 30th anniversary with unprecedented access to the company’s archive of R&D prototypes, concept sketches, and development models.” It collects “insights from the engineers and designers who shaped PlayStation’s identity,” including the “Father of PlayStation,” Ken Kutaragi, the original DualShock designer, Teiyu Goto, and the chief designer on the PS5, Yujin Morisawa.

Sneak peek images show early designs of DualShock controllers and PlayStation consoles — complete with beautiful disc drives.

Fans were quick to point out the curious decision to celebrate the gaming brand’s history with a physical media release. “Just selling collectibles and taking away what we actually want to collect,” said one X user with a sequence of disc emojis. “Just so we’re clear… You support physical books, but not physical games?” replied another.

Earlier this year, Sony announced that it would be cutting disc production for PlayStation consoles starting in 2028. Despite immediate backlash, Sony has stood by the decision. But gamers refuse to back down, taking over the comment sections on pretty much anything PlayStation-related.

While the online backlash is louid, it remains to be seen whether it will affect future launches of physical collectibles, digital games, or even the PS6. Ken Kutaragi, who is featured in the new book, recently backed the studio’s decision, acknowledging that “physical discs have become a metaphor for ‘owning’ games” but ultimately seeing the decision to cut production as “economically reasonable.”

While PlayStation has seen a continued decline in physical disc sales, critics argue that “ownership” is an essential part of gaming communities. Building up your physical game collection has long been a source of pride for any PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo fan, while also allowing for sharing and re-selling.

Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden has been one voice speaking out against the business decision, saying, “If you can't sell a thing, it means you don't own a thing. If you don't own it, then what are you buying?” As PlayStation continues to look back on its 30-year-history, it’s clear that this decision will define its future.