Sony’s PlayStation is facing mounting legal pressure in Europe as a major consumer group in the Netherlands accuses the tech giant of abusing its dominance in the digital gaming market. At the centre of the dispute is Sony’s tight control over game downloads on its PlayStation consoles, which critics say is driving up prices and limiting consumer choice.
The class action suit has been filed by the Dutch consumer rights organisation Stichting Massaschade & Consument. It alleges that Sony has created a closed ecosystem by preventing other digital retailers from selling PlayStation games, forcing users to make purchases exclusively through the official PlayStation Store.
According to the consumer group, this lack of competition has led to inflated pricing. Citing economic analysis, they argue that digital PlayStation games in the Netherlands cost up to 47% more than their physical disc counterparts, despite the fact that digital sales eliminate the cost of manufacturing and distribution.
The legal challenge also points to Sony’s growing push for digital-only consoles, such as the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, which do not support physical game discs at all. Critics say this move further restricts users to Sony’s ecosystem, cutting them off from cheaper options available elsewhere.
The lawsuit claims that Sony controls about 80% of the console market in the Netherlands, a level of dominance that allows the company to raise prices without consulting developers, competitors, or considering consumer response. This, the group argues, undermines fair market practices.
Stichting Massaschade & Consument estimates that since 2013, around 1.7 million Dutch gamers have overpaid by a total of €435 million ($505 million) due to Sony’s alleged anti-competitive practices. The group is seeking compensation on behalf of these consumers and is calling on the court to mandate that Sony allow rival digital game sellers access to its platform.
If successful, the case could force Sony to make significant changes to how it operates its PlayStation Store in Europe, potentially ushering in more competition, lower prices, and broader access for consumers. The first hearing is expected to take place in late 2025.