CD Projekt Red Remains Committed to Physical Media Despite Industry Shifts

By Editorial Staff | September 3, 2026

As the gaming industry accelerates toward an all-digital future, CD Projekt Red (CDPR)-the powerhouse behind The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077-is pushing back against the trend. While major platform holders are signaling the end of the disc era, the Polish developer maintains that physical releases remain a core part of their identity.

The Value of the “Boxed” Experience

In a recent discussion at Gamescom 2026, CDPR joint-CEO Michal Nowakowski emphasized that the studio harbors a deep-seated “affinity” for physical products. For CD Projekt Red, a physical release isn’t just a distribution method; it is a tangible product that must justify its price tag. The studio is committed to ensuring that when they do release a physical edition, it offers genuine value to the collector and the player alike.

This stance arrives at a critical juncture for the industry. With digital storefronts now accounting for over 80% of total software revenue across major consoles, the convenience of instant downloads has largely eclipsed the traditional retail model.

Navigating the Digital-First Mandate

The landscape is shifting rapidly. Sony, for instance, has publicly outlined plans to phase out physical media entirely by 2028. This creates a complex environment for developers who wish to cater to fans who prefer owning a physical copy of their games.

Nowakowski acknowledged that CDPR is ultimately at the mercy of platform holders. “It’s not our decision,” he noted, highlighting the reality that companies like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo hold the keys to manufacturing and distribution. “We can’t simply go against them and secretly press discs in a cellar.”

Creative Solutions for a Changing Market

Despite these external constraints, CDPR is exploring innovative ways to keep the physical medium alive. The studio recognizes that they must adapt to the policies set by console manufacturers while simultaneously finding creative workarounds to ensure that fans of physical media are not left behind.

Whether this involves limited-run collector’s editions, high-quality physical merchandise bundles, or alternative distribution partnerships, the goal remains the same: maintaining a bridge between the digital-first ecosystem and the traditional gaming experience that many players still cherish.

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