Sony has faced significant criticism for its plan to phase out physical game discs for PlayStation by 2028, with many gamers arguing that this move undermines the idea of true ownership of games. Instead of owning a physical copy, players would be left with digital licenses, which critics claim can be revoked or limited by the company. This decision has sparked widespread backlash, with a petition on Change.org against the plan now nearing 400,000 signatures. In response to the growing frustration and anger from customers, Sony Japan has introduced a strict new policy to address abusive behavior toward its employees. Effective September 1, the policy threatens to suspend technical support and take legal action against customers who engage in harassment. Prohibited behaviors include repeated requests for support, demands for excessive compensation, insults, threats, defamatory remarks, intimidating attitudes, and direct attacks on employees. Sony stated it may work with law enforcement and legal professionals to ensure the safety and dignity of its staff, aiming to foster respectful and sustainable relationships with both customers and employees. The new policy aligns with recent Japanese laws aimed at protecting workers from harassment. Meanwhile, the debate over digital ownership continues. Critics argue that eliminating physical discs means players no longer have definitive control over their purchases, as digital licenses can be revoked or restricted. Sony and the Software Publishers Association (SPLA) have both stated that customers are not owners of the games they buy, but rather license holders. This means that game servers can be disabled without refunds, as seen in cases like the Nintendo Switch version of Aliens: Fireteam Elite, where servers were shut down with no refunds offered. In Europe, the European Commission has not proposed legislation requiring game publishers to maintain playable versions of games after they stop selling them. The "Stop Killing Games" initiative, which has collected nearly 1.3 million verified signatures, seeks to prevent this, but the EU has not mandated offline play options or tools for end-of-life games. In the U.S., California law AB2426 requires online stores to clarify that customers are purchasing "licenses," not property. Ubisoft has even asked players to destroy physical copies of games once their license agreements expire. Despite the controversy and legal challenges, Sony remains committed to its plan to stop producing physical discs. The company has not changed course despite class-action lawsuits and customer boycotts. Microsoft and Nintendo have taken similar stances, stating they are not required to refund customs duties to customers. As the debate over digital ownership and consumer rights continues, the gaming industry faces increasing pressure to address concerns over the long-term usability and value of digital purchases.