The Polish developers have openly stated that, no matter what the future holds for the gaming industry, they plan to release their next game on physical media.

Starting in 2028, Sony will stop releasing physical copies of games and switch to digital distribution exclusively. However, rumors are already circulating about this, and we’ve reported on them in today’s news. This will obviously affect the entire market, meaning third-party games will no longer include discs, which could spell the end of physical media. CD Projekt RED (CDPR) recently commented on the situation, stating that The Witcher IV will have a physical release even if Sony discontinues discs. However, the box will contain a digital code as well as a few bonus items.

The studio’s co-president, Michał Nowakowski, addressed concerns that The Witcher IV would be released exclusively in digital form. Unfortunately, for now, it will only be available digitally because CDPR can’t do anything about Sony’s new policy. “We’re nerds ourselves, and we like that. We always supported discs. We’re going to have a box with some feelies in it. It’s something you’re going to want to open and enjoy,” said Nowakowski. However, Nowakowski states that the studio strongly supports physical media and doesn’t believe discs should disappear. That’s why The Witcher IV will be released in a box set with bonus items for collectors.

Of course, it won’t contain a disc, but rather a redeemable code. Sony is taking a similar approach. While this contradicts the purpose of discs—namely, ownership—the studio has no choice but to proceed as planned. It’s likely that things won’t be any different for the Xbox Series or PC. PC gamers, in particular, have rarely been able to enjoy games on physical discs for years.

Source: Tech4gamers