How to Claim Your Share in Sony’s $7.85M PlayStation Antitrust Settlement
Deadline approaches for eligible PlayStation users to file claims.
1Sony’s $7.85M Settlement
Sony has agreed to pay $7.85 million to settle allegations that it illegally restricted PlayStation users from purchasing digital games outside its own store. The lawsuit claimed Sony violated antitrust laws by discontinuing game-specific vouchers, which allowed purchases through third-party retailers. This move allegedly eliminated competition, leaving the PlayStation Store as the sole option for digital game purchases.
2Eligibility Criteria
Only U.S. PlayStation customers who bought digital games during the eligible period can file a claim. The settlement applies to those who purchased games after Sony stopped selling game-specific vouchers for alternative storefronts. Affected individuals are automatically part of the settlement class and will receive compensation via their PlayStation Network account wallet.
3Compensation Details
Compensation will be distributed as PSN wallet credit rather than cash. The final approval hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2025, after which funds will be allocated. Up to 25% of the settlement will cover attorneys’ fees and administrative costs, with the remainder distributed equally among eligible class members.
4Deactivated Account Holders
Gamers with deactivated PlayStation Network accounts can still claim their settlement payment by submitting qualifying purchase information to a specified email address. These users will receive cash payments instead of PSN account credits, ensuring they are not excluded from the settlement.
5Opt-Out Deadline
The option to opt out of the settlement closed on July 2, 2025. Those who opted out retain the right to sue Sony separately regarding its game-voucher sales practices. Individuals who did not opt out will remain part of the settlement class and receive compensation automatically.
6Settlement Approval Process
The settlement was initially proposed in 2024 but rejected twice during the approval process. The presiding judge cited a lack of estimated recovery details for class members. The approval process was reinitiated in April 2025, with a final hearing set for October to confirm the settlement terms.
7Sony’s Stance
Sony denies any wrongdoing and maintains that settlement class members were not harmed by its actions. The court has not ruled on whether Sony violated antitrust laws but has preliminarily approved the $7.85 million settlement pending final approval.
8Impact on Consumers
The settlement highlights concerns over monopolistic practices in digital game sales. While individual payouts may be modest, the case underscores the importance of competition in digital marketplaces and sets a precedent for future antitrust actions in the gaming industry.
Original article: CNET — How to Claim Your Share in Sony’s $7.85M PlayStation Antitrust Settlement