Sony Challenges Digital Game Ownership in Court
- On August 21, Sony argued in federal court that consumers do not own digital games purchased on the PlayStation Store.
- The filing is a response to a proposed class action by four California customers alleging misleading purchase terms.
- Sony claims ownership is implausible, citing two purchases of the same game by different plaintiffs within days.
- The lawsuit references California’s Section 17500.6, which requires clear disclosure when digital goods are licensed, not owned.
- Sony seeks to move the case to private arbitration as per PlayStation’s terms of service.
Sony has filed a motion to dismiss claims of misleading advertising regarding digital game purchases on the PlayStation Store, arguing that consumers receive only a license and not ownership of games. The company aims to resolve the dispute through arbitration rather than court proceedings.
The outcome of this case could impact how digital goods are marketed and sold in California under new advertising laws effective since January 2025. (Source)
