Sony faces lawsuit over alleged 'Sony Tax' on digital PlayStation games

Sony is facing a class action lawsuit in the Netherlands over allegations of monopolistic practices related to its pricing of digital games and downloadable content (DLC). The claim, led by the 'Fair PlayStation' campaign, accuses the company of imposing what consumers have dubbed the "Sony tax," alleging that digital versions of PlayStation games are sold at an average of 47% higher prices compared to their physical counterparts.

The legal action, filed against Sony on June 23, stems from research by the Dutch consumer group, which claims that Sony has exploited its dominant position in the console market for over a decade.

The lawsuit contends that this price disparity has cost Dutch consumers an estimated $505 million since 2013.

The complaint also highlights Sony’s control over its digital marketplace, particularly its restrictions on other app stores, which the plaintiffs argue has stifled competition.

By preventing other digital storefronts from entering the PlayStation platform, Sony is able to set prices without the competitive pressures that typically benefit consumers.

Since the release of the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, Sony has moved aggressively to push digital-only consoles.

Critics argue that this shift, meant to reduce distribution costs, instead allows Sony to maintain high digital prices while eliminating competition.

This practice, the lawsuit claims, has led to inflated costs for games, which are already priced at a premium in many markets — for instance, PlayStation 5 games often retail for $69.99 in the US.