PlayStation Store now compares PS5 sale prices, but lawsuits over monopolistic practices continue

One frustration console gamers have with the PlayStation Store is tracking sale prices. A PS5 game may have experienced larger discounts in the past, which might make buyers hesitate. Sony has now introduced a feature that lets gamers know the lowest price in the past 30 days. However, digital games remain exclusive to the marketplace. Consequently, it likely won’t stop accusations of anti-competitive behavior.

As discussed by Push Square, underneath a game’s rating, shoppers will see if it has been cheaper over the past month. For now, the capability seems limited to consoles, rather than the PlayStation Store website. Still, critics note that alternative resources like PS Deals give much more detailed data on PS4 and PS5 sales. With just 30 days to consider, it’s challenging to forecast when a regular discount might reappear.

Sony recently added the ability to leave reviews of purchased games on the web version of the shop. Gamers can also request refunds for titles not yet downloaded without contacting PlayStation Support. While these are consumer-friendly changes, they won’t impact claims that the PlayStation Store is a monopoly.

The PS Store differs from other digital gaming marketplaces

One U.S. class action lawsuit argues that Sony’s marketplace takes advantage of consumers. Unlike with Xbox or Steam games, the company doesn’t allow third-party retailers to sell redemption codes. Even with official PS5 sales, the plaintiffs argue that discounts would be steeper with more competition. Sony offered $7.8 million in store credits as a settlement, which the judge overseeing the case rejected.

PlayStation faces similar litigation in European countries like the Netherlands and the UK. Another complaint from buyers is the PS Store’s lack of regional pricing. Steam, Nintendo, and Microsoft consider the economic challenges of gamers in lower-income countries. Unfortunately, Silksong highlighted how Brazilian buyers pay more for some digital games than on rival platforms.

Sony is essentially competing against itself with the new PS5 sale tracker. Nevertheless, it may ease the pain of consumers who are struggling with price increases.