Sony Comments on Risk of Losing PS5 Users to PC

Summary

• Sony isn't concerned about losing PS5 users to PC.
• PS5 sales are comparable to PS4 sales, despite the absence of permanent console exclusives.
• Sony plans a more aggressive approach to releasing PlayStation games on PC.

A Sony executive recently downplayed concerns about losing PlayStation console users to PC. This statement came during a discussion of the company's PC publishing strategy.

Sony's foray into PC gaming began in 2020 with Horizon Zero Dawn. This initiative has accelerated since the 2021 acquisition of Nixxes Software, a renowned PC porting studio.

While bringing PlayStation exclusives to PC expands reach and revenue, it theoretically weakens the console's unique selling proposition. However, a Sony representative stated during a late 2024 investor Q&A that they haven't observed a significant risk of losing PS5 users to PC. The official said, "In terms of losing users to PCs, we have neither confirmed that any such trend is underway, nor do we see it as a major risk, so far."

PS5 Sales Remain Strong Despite PC Ports

This perspective aligns with PS5 sales figures. As of November 2024, 65.5 million PS5 units had been sold, closely mirroring the PS4's sales of over 73 million in its first four years. The difference is largely attributed to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, not the impact of PC ports. The consistent sales across generations support Sony's view that PC releases minimally affect the PS5's appeal.

The PlayStation maker intends to further increase its PC releases. In 2024, Sony President Hiroki Totoki announced a more "aggressive" strategy, aiming to shorten the release window between PS5 and PC versions. Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching on PC January 30th, just 15 months after its PS5 debut, exemplifies this. This contrasts with Spider-Man: Miles Morales, which remained a PlayStation exclusive for over two years.

Besides Spider-Man 2, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth arrives on Steam January 23rd. Several other high-profile PS5 exclusives remain unannounced for PC, including Gran Turismo 7, Rise of the Ronin, Stellar Blade, and the Demon's Souls remake.