Sony CEO Lists Concerns Over Migration from PS5 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 emerged during a recent discussion of Sony'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 specialist in PC porting. While releasing PlayStation exclusives on PC expands reach and revenue, it theoretically weakens the PS5's unique selling proposition. However, Sony's data suggests otherwise.

PS5 Sales Remain Strong

PS5 sales figures up to November 2024 show approximately 65.5 million units sold. This is comparable to the PS4's sales after its first four years (over 73 million). Sony attributes the slight difference primarily to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, not to the availability of titles on PC. The consistent sales across generations reinforce Sony's belief that PC ports minimally affect PS5 appeal.

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."

Increased Aggressiveness in PC Porting

Sony intends to become even more "aggressive" with PC ports, aiming to reduce the time lag between PS5 and PC releases. Marvel's Spider-Man 2, launching on PC January 30th, only 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 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.