Sony Comments on Risk of Losing PS5 Users to PC

Sony's PC Port Strategy: No PS5 User Loss Concerns

Sony isn't concerned about losing PlayStation 5 (PS5) users to PC gaming, according to a company executive. This statement, part of a recent presentation outlining Sony's PC publishing strategy, suggests confidence in the dual-platform approach.

Sony's foray into PC gaming began in 2020 with Horizon Zero Dawn, accelerating after the 2021 acquisition of Nixxes Software, a renowned PC porting studio. While releasing PlayStation exclusives on PC expands reach and revenue, it theoretically weakens the console's unique selling proposition. However, a company representative recently stated that "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 confidence is supported by PS5 sales figures. As of November 2024, 65.5 million PS5 units have been sold, comparable to the PS4's sales after its first four years (over 73 million). The slight difference is largely attributed to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, not a shift to PC gaming. The consistent sales across generations reinforce Sony's view that PC ports minimally impact PS5 appeal.

A More Aggressive PC Porting Approach

Sony intends to further intensify its PC porting efforts. In 2024, President Hiroki Totoki announced a plan to be more "aggressive," reducing the time lag between PS5 and PC releases. Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching on PC January 30th, just 15 months after its PS5 debut, exemplifies this strategy. This contrasts with the over two-year exclusivity of Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

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