PlayStation 5: growth in active users and future changes
Intelligence Summary
- The PlayStation 5 keeps growing to 125 million monthly active users by June 2026, despite boycott threats and plans to end physical games.
Briefly summarized
- The PlayStation 5 will have 125 million monthly active users by June 2026.
- Despite boycott threats, active users rose to 116 million in Q1 2024.
- Sony is considering no longer releasing physical games starting in 2028, raising questions about the impact on the user experience.
GAME-scanner analysis
The PlayStation 5 continues to show strong growth, with a rise of 2 million active users from 2025 to 2026. This is notable given the recent boycott threats that have emerged from dissatisfaction with certain Sony business decisions. The growth in active users can be attributed to the appeal of exclusive titles and the continued support of PlayStation Network services. The figures show that the gaming community remains loyal to the platform, despite the challenges Sony is facing.
What does this mean for players?
For gamers, the growth in active users means there will continue to be a lively and active community, which benefits the multiplayer experience and social interaction. However, the possible end of physical games could raise concerns about title accessibility and the future of physical media in the gaming industry. Players will have to wait and see how these changes affect their experience.
Timeline
Q1 2023: 108 million active users.
Q1 2024: 116 million active users.
June 2025: 123 million monthly active users.
June 2026: 125 million monthly active users.
2028: Plans to stop producing physical games for new titles.