Summary
- A class-action lawsuit has been filed in the Netherlands accusing Sony of abusing its dominant position in the PlayStation Store.
- The lawsuit claims Sony charges nearly 47% more for digital games compared to physical copies.
- More than 1.7 million Dutch gamers are said to have been overcharged since 2013, leading to losses of around €435 million ($505 million).
- The suit argues that Sony’s digital-only consoles and locked digital marketplace limit consumer choice and inflate prices.
New Lawsuit Targets Sony’s Digital Pricing Practices
In the Netherlands, a new class-action lawsuit has been launched against Sony, backed by the Massaschade and Consument Foundation. The group accuses Sony of using its huge market share—around 80% of the Dutch console market—to unfairly raise prices on the PlayStation Store.
This case is part of a broader concern over Sony’s digital pricing strategy and its control over digital game sales.
Research cited in the lawsuit highlights that digital games on the PlayStation Store cost roughly 47% more than physical copies. This is puzzling since digital sales avoid costs like packaging and shipping. Over the past 12 years, this “Sony tax” has allegedly cost Dutch consumers more than €435 million (about $505 million).
How Sony Limits Consumer Choice
The lawsuit points to Sony’s push of digital-only consoles like the PS5 Digital Edition and the blocking of alternative digital stores on their platform. These practices keep gamers locked into the PlayStation Store, where Sony controls pricing and access, limiting competition and options for consumers.
With no other stores allowed and limited competition, Sony can set prices largely unchecked. This has led to significant consumer dissatisfaction and the legal challenge aiming to force Sony to open its digital market.
Potential Impact of the Lawsuit
If the lawsuit succeeds, Sony might be required to allow other sellers on its platform, increasing competition and possibly lowering prices. Similar lawsuits in the UK and France may add pressure, and European Union regulations might also influence the outcome.
This lawsuit echoes previous battles like the Epic vs. Apple case, where restrictive digital marketplaces were challenged and changed.
For now, the lawsuit is in its early stages, with the first court hearing expected later in 2025. Sony has not publicly commented on the case yet.
