PlayStation Owners at Risk of Switching 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 strategy overview, highlights Sony's evolving approach to PC releases.

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 releasing PlayStation exclusives on PC expands reach and revenue, it theoretically weakens the console's unique selling proposition. However, Sony's data suggests otherwise.

PS5 Sales Remain Strong

PS5 sales figures, reaching 65.5 million units by November 2024, are comparable to the PS4's performance within its first four years. Sony attributes the slight difference (PS4 sold slightly over 73 million units) primarily to PS5 supply chain constraints during the pandemic, not a shift to PC gaming. This strong console sales performance reinforces Sony's confidence in its PC porting strategy.

An executive stated, "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."

A More Aggressive PC Porting Approach

Sony plans a more aggressive PC porting strategy, aiming to reduce 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 shift. This contrasts with Spider-Man: Miles Morales, which remained a PlayStation exclusive for over two years.

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.