PlayStation wins “hall of shame” award from consumer rights group

Australian consumer rights group Choice has named Sony Interactive Entertainment among its annual Shonky Award “hall of shame” winners, criticising PlayStation’s digital game licensing. The group says players pay for access rather than ownership, a concern that could grow if physical game discs disappear.

Choice argues Sony’s licence terms allow access to digital games to be withdrawn, and points to the removal of hundreds of digital films without refunds as an example involving other media. It also warns that fewer physical releases could reduce access to second-hand games and give Sony and publishers greater control over prices and sales. The Shonky Awards have run since 2006 and have previously singled out gaming products and services.