In a rather dramatic – dare I say borderline performative – statement of intent, Chinese indie publisher Astrolabe Games has released a “manifesto”, pledging its commitment to PS5 physical games until Sony stops manufacturing them in January 2028.
The so-called ‘A-Go Manifesto’ promises to “safeguard developers’ creations” by ensuring a disc for all its upcoming projects is released, assuming they “meet basic eligibility requirements”.
Sony requires a minimum order of physical games, so publishers must commit to a specific number of units, usually in the thousands. It says this commitment represents a “stand alongside passionate developers”.
Astrolabe Games is behind some pretty cool, niche PS5 titles – like BlazBlue Entropy Effect X and Stories from Sol: The Gun-Dog.
The Shanghai-based firm says it’ll continue “till the last day” to ensure its games receive as many boxed releases as possible, although its manifesto does include some disclaimers, noting certain titles may only be available in select territories.
It also admits it’s at the mercy of platform holder policies, so any changes on Sony’s end could put an end to its pledge.
I do expect we’ll see an absolute avalanche of physical releases in 2027, while publishers rush to release their games on disc before the deadline.
Remember, Sony has said there will be capacity for re-orders after the cut-off date, assuming publishers get their games manufactured before January 2028.
Astrolabe’s upcoming physical slate includes Gurei later this year and Fall Up early next year.
I’m sure it’ll find a market to sell these games to, but I have to imagine they’ll be available in relatively small runs.
As reported overnight, only seven physical titles in 2026 have exceeded 100k sales, which is a vanishingly small number – despite the relentless uproar around Sony’s decision.
[source astrolabe-games.ca]
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As the Editor of Push Square, Sammy has over 15 years of experience analysing the world of PlayStation, from PS3 through PS5 and everything in between. He’s an expert on PS Studios and industry matters, as well as sports games and simulators. He also enjoys RPGs when he has the time to dedicate to them, and is a bit of a gacha whale.
