PlayStation creator Ken Kutaragi believes physical game discs have become more of a symbol of ownership than a practical necessity, arguing that digital distribution makes greater economic sense.

The ongoing debate surrounding physical and digital video games has attracted comments from one of PlayStation’s most influential figures.

Ken Kutaragi, widely known as the Father of PlayStation, has shared his perspective on the future of physical games and why he believes digital distribution is becoming increasingly practical.

Speaking with Video Games Chronicle, Kutaragi acknowledged that many players remain emotionally attached to owning games on disc.

Ken Kutaragi Questions the Need for Physical Games

Kutaragi explained that physical media has become closely associated with the concept of ownership, even as digital content becomes increasingly common.

“I understand that physical discs have become a metaphor for ‘owning’ games. I really understand that mentality,” he said.

He compared the situation to smartphones, where users generally accept purchasing and accessing digital content without physical copies.

Kutaragi also questioned whether continuing to manufacture physical discs makes financial sense.

“I really understand [why some people are upset], but I don’t think it’s economically reasonable,” he added.

Physical vs. Digital Games Remains a Major Debate

Kutaragi’s comments arrive amid reports suggesting that PlayStation could move away from physical game releases in the future.

However, Kutaragi no longer works at Sony, and his statements should not be interpreted as confirmation of the company’s future hardware or publishing plans.

Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida has also recently questioned the controversy surrounding physical games.

For many players, physical copies remain important because of resale opportunities, collecting and concerns about long-term access to digital purchases.

While Kutaragi sees digital distribution as a logical evolution, the debate over physical game ownership and preservation is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.