The Witcher 4: physical edition remains despite Sony's disc stop
In brief
- CD Projekt Red confirms The Witcher 4 will get a physical edition, even if Sony stops making discs in 2028.
In short
- CD Projekt Red has confirmed that The Witcher 4 will have a physical edition, regardless of Sony's plans to stop making physical discs in 2028.
- The release of The Witcher 4 is currently expected in 2028, but that could change depending on development.
- Sony's decision to end physical discs has major implications for the future of gaming, but CD Projekt Red remains committed to collectors.
GAME-scanner analysis
CD Projekt Red's confirmation that The Witcher 4 will have a physical edition, even if Sony stops producing discs in 2028, is a strategic move that underlines the value of physical media for gamers. The decision shows that CD Projekt Red is aware of the nostalgic and collector appeal that physical editions offer, especially for a franchise as beloved as The Witcher. Michał Nowakowski, the studio's joint CEO, emphasized that they remain focused on the collectors' market, sending a clear message to fans who want unique physical copies with extras such as art books or maps, often included with previous titles. It could also be a signal to other developers to reconsider the value of physical editions in an increasingly digital world.
What does this mean for players?
For players, this announcement means they'll have the chance to own a tangible version of The Witcher 4, which not only creates a stronger connection to the game but can also become a collector's item. It may influence how future games are released, especially at a time when the industry is shifting more and more toward digital distribution. The question remains, however, how the end of physical discs will affect game availability, especially in the early stages of development. Players may wonder whether The Witcher 4's physical edition will include a disc or take another form of physical media, such as a USB stick or a download code.
Timeline
2026-08-29: CD Projekt Red confirms that The Witcher 4 will have a physical edition.
2028-01-01: Sony stops producing physical PlayStation discs.
2028: Expected release of The Witcher 4, depending on development.