A Dutch consumer group, Massaschade & Consument, has launched a lawsuit against Sony, claiming that the company takes unfair advantage of its dominant position by charging higher prices for digital games on the PlayStation Store compared to physical game copies.

Key Points

• The lawsuit asserts that digital games are, on average, 47% more expensive on the PlayStation Store than their physical equivalents.
• If the lawsuit prevails, it could significantly shake up the digital gaming market, potentially requiring Sony to allow other sellers into the PlayStation Store.

Historically, Sony has faced legal challenges related to the PlayStation Store, including a £5 billion lawsuit in 2022 concerning alleged anti-competitive practices. More recently, in 2023, they were engaged in a $7.9 billion class action case over accusations of overcharging consumers.

Summary of the Current Lawsuit

1. The lawsuit claims that Sony’s pricing strategies on the PlayStation Store lead to artificially inflated costs for consumers.
2. Dutch consumers who have made purchases on the PlayStation Store can join the lawsuit at no cost.
3. The first hearing is anticipated towards the end of 2025.

Overall, the lawsuit from Massaschade & Consument could demand substantial changes in how Sony manages its digital marketplace. If successful, it might pave the way for a more competitive and fair pricing structure for digital gaming.