Last August, it was revealed that a class action lawsuit had been assembled against Sony PlayStation, with the allegation being that the firm had ‘ripped off’ millions of customers by charging ‘unfair prices’ in the platform’s digital store. It was kicked off by ‘consumer champion’ Alex Neill, who maintains that over six years, PlayStation gamers in the United Kingdom were overcharged by as much as £5 billion ($6.2 billion).
In the latest development, a UK tribunal turned around Sony’s attempts to quash the class action lawsuit, which means it can officially proceed to trial.
Settle in for the Long Run
In documentation published on ‘playstationyouoweus.co.uk’, it was revealed that the case will be aired in court – but fair warning to those partaking in the class action, it could take years before it’s settled. As this ‘significant’ first step was taken, Alex Neill, the representative for the claim, said:
This is the first step in ensuring consumers get back what they’re owed as a result of Sony breaking the law. Playstation gamers’ loyalty has been taken advantage of by Sony who have been charging them excessive prices for years. It is significant that the competition court has recognised Sony must explain its actions by ordering them to trial. With this action we are seeking to put a stop to this unlawful conduct and ensure customers are compensated.
This lawsuit is being funded by a third-party litigation firm, which has quite literally invested in the class action based on the validity of the claim and the likelihood of compensation. It has been alleged that Sony PlayStation abuses its position of power and uses a ‘near monopoly’ on digital sales to dictate the price of content, charging up to a 30% commission on each sale.
For those taking part in the class action, the criteria to list as a member is to have lived in the United Kingdom between August 2016 and August 2022 and to have bought software or downloadable content through a PlayStation digital storefront.
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