A new trend called 'psblackout' has spread across social media, where participants are calling on PlayStation users to turn off their PS5s, cancel subscriptions, and refrain from purchases. This protest is aimed at Sony's decision to stop producing physical game discs, which will take effect in January 2028.
The boycott starts today and will last until August 30. Many PlayStation users have made it clear to the Japanese giant that they will not support the company if it continues to abandon physical media. Statements circulating on social media include, 'If buying is not owning, then piracy is not theft' and 'No disc, no purchase.'
PSBlackout: The Start of the PlayStation Boycott
Activists who initiated this trend have called on PlayStation players to participate in an economic and gaming 'blackout' from Sunday, August 23, to Sunday, August 30. Participants can join by turning off their consoles or logging out for seven days. Activists believe that this period will have minimal impact on publishers and developers but will allow gamers to voice their opinions.
Some users dispute the significance of the boycott efforts, noting that it poses little threat to Sony, especially with Gamescom approaching. Others argue that this is the optimal time for a Sony boycott since there are no major game releases expected next week. Most believe that the most effective way to 'harm' Sony is through mass cancellation of PlayStation Plus subscriptions: 'Want to hurt Sony? Massively cancel your PSN subscription for 3 months.'