PC Gaming Threatens PS5 Userbase, Sony Warns

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 accelerated following 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 remains unconcerned about significant PS5 user attrition. A company representative 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."

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 (slightly over 73 million). The difference is largely attributed to PS5 supply chain issues during the pandemic, rather than the impact of PC ports. The sustained console sales suggest that PC releases minimally affect the PS5's market 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 become 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 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.