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Investigation launched into Sony’s PS Store for potentially unfair prices – UBJ

Posted on by angelo
Investigation launched into Sony’s PS Store for potentially unfair prices – UBJ

PS Store Price Lawsuit

As part of the ongoing review of digital video game showcases, the Polish regulator has launched an investigation into PlayStation Store pricing and practices. This follows similar investigations in other countries, such as Romania’s announcement last year and the UK Competition Tribunal’s recent ruling allowing legal action against Sony Interactive to continue Entertainment.

Investigation into operational conduct of Sony PS Store amid surge in digital sales

The Office for Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) in Poland has raised concerns about potential “restrictive practices” on the PlayStation Store and Steam, as explained in its official statement. Areas of review include potential exclusion of competitors, unfair treatment of developers and publishers, and high prices for consumers.

The investigation also focused on a recent raid by UOKiK staff on a Sony headquarters in Poland and two undisclosed game development studios. UOKiK president Tomasz Chróstny warned of possible punitive measures, but suggested leniency for those actively cooperating with the investigation.

This investigation into Sony’s business practices takes on added significance in light of Sony’s latest financial disclosures. As detailed on their Investor Relations page, there has been a major shift with 70% of PlayStation’s full game software sold as digital downloads in FY 2023, confirming the trend of consumers preferring digital to physical media, despite apparent concerns about market fairness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What is the main issue investigated in the PS Store investigation in Poland?
    The investigation focuses on alleged anti-competitive practices, such as excluding competitors, exploiting game developers and publishers, and charging players higher prices.
  2. Have there been similar surveys in other countries?
    Yes, this follows previous actions such as a lawsuit in the UK and an investigation in Romania regarding similar issues with the PlayStation Store.
  3. What could be the consequences for Sony in the event of a violation?
    Although specific sanctions have yet to be determined, the UOKiK president raised the possibility of harsh sanctions, although some leniency could be given to those who cooperate with authorities.
  4. Has Sony faced legal action for digital practices elsewhere?
    Yes, Sony Interactive Entertainment was sued in the United States for similar practices, but the case was dismissed in 2022.

Conclusion

Intensifying investigations into Sony’s PS Store in Poland and elsewhere reflect growing international concern over the potential for anticompetitive behavior in the increasingly digital gaming market. With digital downloads now accounting for a significant portion of game sales, regulators are paying close attention to ensure fair practices for consumers and other industry stakeholders. The outcome of these investigations could set precedents for the digital distribution of video games and possibly prompt policy changes or regulatory oversight to protect consumer rights in the digital gaming sphere.