As the PSBlackout protests against the end of physical discs get underway, new EULA emails make it unmistakably clear that software is only licensed.
Coinciding with the planned boycott against Sony’s phase-out of physical games starting in 2028, PlayStation users received an unwelcome reminder of what they actually own on the platform—and what they don’t.
“You recently accepted the following PlayStation terms (the ‘Terms’): PlayStation Terms of Service, PlayStation Code of Conduct, PlayStation End User License Agreement, PlayStation Privacy Policy,” reads an email that appeared on Reddit on August 18.
“For your records and future reference, we have attached full copies of the terms and conditions to this email. Please keep this email.”
“Licensed, not sold”: Wave of emails brings to mind EULA clauses
Several recipients reported receiving the email even though they hadn’t turned on their PS4 or PS5 in months. Instead of simply linking to the terms and conditions, the email included the full text of each document mentioned—including the section of theSoftware EULA that deals with digital purchases.
“The software is licensed to you, not sold,” it states. “You are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and personal license to use the software for your private, non-commercial use on the system or device for which it is intended.” Furthermore, the terms prohibit activities such as renting, modifying, or acquiring games through unauthorized channels.
PSBlackout and Disc-Free: Sony Remains Unfazed, Focusing on Digitalization
The email arrives just as a week-long protest by gamers is gaining momentum. The PSBlackout campaign, organized by the fan group DoesItPlay, runs from August 23 to 30. It calls on all participants to log out, refrain from making purchases, and cancel subscriptions to protest Sony’s move away from physical media.
In its latest financial report, Sony addressed questions regarding its decision to phase out physical media. The company had announced that it would cease production and sales of discs for PlayStation games in early 2028. Sony reaffirmed its course but also emphasized that it understood the emotional reactions of fans.
“There are various reasons for this decision. The most important one is that the digitization of content as a whole is continuing to advance. That is the decisive factor,” explained Sony’s Chief Financial Officer Lin Tao during a Q&A session. “This doesn’t just apply to PlayStation, but to all kinds of content—digitization is simply moving forward.”
