Dutch Consumer Group Sues Sony Over High Digital Game Prices on PlayStation Store
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The Dutch consumer foundation Massaschade & Consument has filed a lawsuit against Sony, accusing the company of abusing its dominant position to keep prices high on the PlayStation Store. The foundation argues that digital games cost, on average, 47% more than physical versions, even though the costs of publishing and distribution are lower.
This legal action is based on research done by the foundation, which shows how the PlayStation Store’s closed system and Sony’s strong position in the console market cause “artificially high prices.” The foundation is especially unhappy with Sony’s choice to stop people from buying digital game keys from other stores, which reduces choices for consumers.
Sony Could Be Forced to Open Its Digital Market to Other Sellers
If the lawsuit is successful, Sony may be forced to open up its digital market to other sellers. This case is part of a wider trend of similar legal actions against Sony in other European countries. In the UK, a similar case has been given the green light by the Competition Appeal Tribunal, drawing increasing attention to Sony’s business practices in the digital market.
Dutch PlayStation users who have bought items from the PlayStation Store can join the lawsuit for free. The first court hearing is expected at the end of the year, and the result could have a big impact on the digital game market.
In other news, Nintendo recently filed a lawsuit against a grocery store named “Super Mario” in San Ramon, Costa Rica, seeking to force a name change. However, the Costa Rican National Registry rejected Nintendo’s request, ruling that the Super Mario trademark was not classified in the country.
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