- Sony's announcement to stop releasing PlayStation games on discs prompted YouTuber Nostalgia Nerd (Peter Leigh) to urge people to preserve physical media.
- Sony attributed the shift to digital preference outpacing physical discs.
- Leigh warned that physical media does not last forever: "Discs tend to rot after a while" if not stored properly.
- Leigh advised specific storage: keep discs in original cases, avoid stacking, clean in circles, and store in a good environment.
- Leigh predicted the move won't go down well and that physical discs will make a comeback.
- Leigh called modern technology "too clinical" and said his kids are "obsessed with physical media" as it grounds them.
Sony's decision to stop releasing physical game discs for PlayStation by January 2028 has sparked concern among gamers and advocates for physical media. YouTuber Nostalgia Nerd, known as Leigh, emphasizes the importance of preserving physical collections as digital formats become dominant.1
Leigh cautions that discs can rot over time if not stored correctly, stating, "People think physical media is going to last forever, but it doesn't." He advises gamers to keep discs in their original cases and avoid stacking them to prevent bending. Proper cleaning techniques, such as cleaning in circles, are also recommended to prolong the lifespan of the discs.4
Despite the shift towards digital, Leigh believes that many will miss physical media, saying, "People are going to miss it." He argues that downloading games lacks the same connection as owning a physical copy, and he predicts a potential resurgence of physical media in the future.
Leigh also highlights the appeal of retro technology, noting that his children are drawn to physical media, which provides a break from the overwhelming nature of online experiences. He believes that physical media keeps them grounded amidst the digital chaos, reinforcing the value of tangible collections in an increasingly digital world.
“Leigh warned that discs tend to rot if not stored properly, advising to keep them in original cases and clean in circles to extend longevity. He predicted physical media will make a comeback, criticizing modern technology as 'too clinical' and noting his kids are obsessed with physical media.”
BBC
