Millions of PlayStation users in the United States could be compensated under a proposed $7.85 million class-action settlement involving Sony. Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC, alleges Sony's decision to stop allowing outside retailers to sell certain digital game vouchers reduced competition and led consumers to pay higher prices for some games purchased through the PlayStation Store. Digital gaming marketplaces have become a major source of revenue for game publishers, and consumers are increasingly purchasing downloadable titles instead of physical copies.
However, the company has agreed to settle the claims for $7.85 million. The lawsuit alleges Sony engaged in anticompetitive conduct designed to monopolize the market for digital PlayStation games. Prior to April 1, 2019, consumers could purchase certain game-specific download vouchers from third-party retailers such as GameStop, Best Buy and Amazon.
Plaintiffs argued those retailers often competed on price and offered discounts. After Sony stopped allowing retailers to sell those vouchers, plaintiffs say PlayStation users lost alternative purchasing options and ended up paying more for some digital games. Sony maintains it did not violate federal antitrust laws or state laws.
However, the settlement was reached to resolve the litigation and avoid the costs and uncertainty of continued legal proceedings. Newsweek reached out to the company for comment. The court has scheduled a final fairness hearing for October 15 at 2 p.m.
PT before Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. At that hearing, the court will decide whether to grant final approval to the settlement and approve awards for plaintiffs.
According to the settlement website, consumers may qualify if they: Not every PlayStation Store purchase during the class period is eligible. The settlement applies only to certain games that meet specific criteria outlined by the parties and the court such as The Last of Us, as well as third-party games, like Mass Effect Trilogy and Resident Evil 4, CNET reported. For most eligible consumers, no action will be required.
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