Ken Kutaragi Understands Why PlayStation Fans Want Physical Games

Kutaragi says discs have become a symbol of ownership

Ken Kutaragi, widely known as the “Father of PlayStation,” says he understands why some players are upset about Sony moving away from physical game discs. To many fans, a disc represents more than a way to install a game: it feels like proof that they own it.

Speaking with Video Games Chronicle (VGC) at the Game Republic New Horizons event in the UK, Kutaragi said physical discs have become a “metaphor for ‘owning’ games.” He acknowledged that Sony’s direction has caused friction with enthusiasts.

However, Kutaragi also questioned whether continuing to produce discs is economically reasonable. He compared players’ expectations around game discs with smartphones, where people generally expect their digital content to remain available. He suggested that the difference may come down to people’s attitudes toward digital ownership.

His comments come as PlayStation shifts toward a more network-connected future. Kutaragi suggested the company may increasingly view PlayStation as a platform for delivering different kinds of content, rather than only as a traditional game console. He also noted that this approach can conflict with what dedicated players want.

Kutaragi left Sony in 2007 and does not speak for PlayStation’s current leadership. His remarks reflect his own view of the industry’s direction, while recognizing that the move away from discs remains contentious among fans.

VGC published its report on October 16, 2026. Kutaragi’s comments were made at the Game Republic New Horizons event.