The international activist group Does it Play has organized a PlayStation blackout, spanning one week from August 23rd through the 30th. This blackout, announced on July 26, 2026, is a direct response to Sony Interactive Entertainment’s decision to halt physical game disc production, beginning in 2028. This decision has resulted in a loud outcry from PlayStation fans, with many arguing against the requirement to purchase a digital license. Others have expressed concern about what this might mean for used video game shops, and whether they will still be able to share new games with friends.
Persistence. Disruption. For as long as possible.
If you choose not to participate, that’s fine. Your time is your own.
But do not for a moment degrade those who choose to do something, anything, to further the cause of keeping consumer choice alive.If we turn on each other – THEY win.
— PNP Games 🇨🇦 (@pnpgames.bsky.social) July 28, 2026 at 10:09 AM
“Sony wants to abandon fans? Let’s give them a small taste of their own medicine! Together with other creators we call for a 1 week #PSBlackout in August. No logins, no play sessions, no purchases on any of Sony’s platforms,” the tagline plastered across various social media websites reads. Does it Play elaborates further in an image attachment, explaining that they feel that PlayStation and Sony have become increasingly disconnected with the community the company has built itself around. In the past, Sony has canceled fan events, closed “beloved studios,” and other things that make “ending physical discs in 2028 feel like the last straw.”
Despite believing that the return of physical game discs would “only be meeting players halfway,” Does it Play appears to still be determined to try. The instructions for participation are as follows, assuming the form of an internet directive: “With that, we are calling on PlayStation players to participate in an economic and gameplay blackout from Sunday, August 23, at 7:00 PM local time through Sunday, August 30, at 7:00 PM local time. Players can participate by turning off their consoles or logging out for seven days.”
While some fans have shared concerns about the blackout only lasting one week, there are multiple reasons for this timeframe. First, “that this period gives publishers and developers minimal impact while still giving players a voice.” This is essential, as the loss must be absorbed by Sony, not independent creators. In addition, one week is easiest for most players to participate in, which results in a higher chance of Sony taking note. So far, the original post has thousands of views, comments, and reactions across social media platforms, as well as a dedicated #psblackout hastag signal.