Sony Comments on Risk of Losing PS5 Users to PC

Sony's PC Port Strategy: No PS5 User Loss in Sight

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, reveals Sony's confidence in its approach to PC ports.

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 PS5's unique selling proposition. However, Sony sees minimal risk of significant PS5 user migration. A company representative recently stated, "We haven't seen any trend indicating user loss to PCs, and we don't consider it a major risk at this time."

PS5 Sales Remain Strong Despite PC Releases

This confidence is supported by PS5 sales figures. As of November 2024, 65.5 million PS5 units have been sold, closely mirroring the PS4's sales after its first four years (over 73 million). The slight difference is attributed primarily to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, not a lack of exclusive titles. The consistent sales across generations suggest PC ports haven't significantly impacted PS5 appeal.

Sony plans to further intensify its PC porting efforts. In 2024, President Hiroki Totoki announced a more "aggressive" approach, 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 strategy. This is a considerable shift from the previous Spider-Man game's over two-year PS5 exclusivity.

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. The future holds more PC ports from Sony, suggesting a continued commitment to this multi-platform strategy.