PlayStation Lawsuit for Video Game Addiction – January 2025 Update

The PlayStation Lawsuit Is An Active Lawsuit

See If You Qualify!

People are filing personal injury and product liability lawsuits alleging video games led to addiction and other mental health injuries. These lawsuits accuse PlayStation of not properly disclosing the potential dangerous side effects of video games. Addiction to gaming is recognized as a mental health disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), under the name of Internet Gaming Disorder.

PlayStation Video Game Addiction Lawsuit
– 2025 Updates

January 15, 2025: Additional Video Game Addiction Lawsuits Expected To Be Filed Nationwide

As more research continues to point to the addictive nature of video games, additional lawsuits are expected to be filed throughout the country. Many of these games are played on PlayStation consoles. It is alleged that Sony, the maker of PlayStation, failed to warn consumers about the potentially addictive nature of video games, making them indirectly linked to this litigation.

December 16, 2024: Sony Agrees to Settle Multi-Million Dollar Federal Lawsuit

Sony has agreed to a $7.85 million settlement in a federal lawsuit that accused the company of “illegally reducing competition” for games on PlayStation. Plaintiffs alleged the company barred competitors such as GameStop and Best Buy from offering vouchers for certain games. Sony has faced similar lawsuits across the country and abroad.

June 5, 2024: Motion to Transfer Video Game Lawsuits to MDL Denied

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has denied a motion to consolidate multiple lawsuits into multidistrict litigation. The panel noted that the lawsuits contained substantial differences that did not support centralization. While no MDL was formed, it does not preclude the opportunity for a class action lawsuit or consolidation in the future. 

March 20, 2024: Motion Filed to Centralize Video Game Addiction Lawsuits Into MDL

A motion has been filed to centralize cases into multidistrict litigation (MDL). Lawsuits are generally consolidated into an MDL when their facts are substantially similar, and there are similar defendants. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation can either grant or deny the motion to transfer after reviewing the facts of the case. 

February 25, 2024: Playstation Accused of Excessive Pricing

Sony, the parent company of Playstation, is facing a lawsuit filed in the United Kingdom on behalf of 8.9 million users. The lawsuit alleges that the company set unfair, excessive pricing and used its position as a near monopoly in the industry to take advantage of consumers. 

About the PlayStation Lawsuit:

Legal Grounds in the PlayStation Video Game Addiction Lawsuit

Lawsuits have been filed nationwide alleging video game manufacturers designed their products to be addictive. Legal complaints include that the games contain a dangerous design defect that causes harm to consumers and that developers failed to warn users about the potential for serious injury, including addiction. While Sony, the maker of PlayStation, has not yet been named a defendant in these cases, the console is frequently used to access these games, making the company indirectly relevant to this litigation. 

Failure to Warn About Risks of Addiction

One of the main arguments against video game manufacturers is that they failed to warn consumers about the potential harm associated with the use of their products. In particular, plaintiffs allege that the companies did not adequately inform consumers about the potential for games to foster addictive behaviors in violation of state and federal law. 

Additionally, the company’s failure to warn prevented consumers from making informed decisions about their gaming habits. Plaintiffs argue that adequate warnings may have led them to limit their game use. Many of these games were played on PlayStation consoles, making it concerning that the company never warned its users about the risk of harm.  

Product Liability for Addictive Game Designs

In addition to claims about failure to warn, plaintiffs argue that video game manufacturers are liable for designing a dangerous product in violation of product liability laws. Specifically, legal claims allege that the games contained addictive features that may cause or exacerbate mental health problems. Many of the games are accessed via platforms like the PlayStation, highlighting the need for Sony and others to adequately warn consumers about the dangers associated with accessing these games. 

Negligence in Addressing Long-Term Effects of Addictive Game Designs

Finally, legal documents allege that video game manufacturers failed to fully research and assess the potential long-term effects of using these games and failed to disclose any known risks. It is alleged that the companies may have knowingly withheld information related to the safety of these products. While Sony has not been named as a defendant in these negligence lawsuits, the prevalence of the PlayStation console being used as a platform brings the company under scrutiny.

PlayStation Class Action Lawsuit vs Multi-District Litigation

Sony has faced a number of legal issues related to PlayStation, including allegations of illegally running a monopoly and controller drift claims. These class action lawsuits, however, differ from other lawsuits, which target video game manufacturers who designed their products to be addictive. In 2024, a motion was made to transfer multiple video game addiction lawsuits to multi-district litigation. While the initial motion was denied due to differences between the cases, an MDL can help to streamline the pretrial process and may be requested again in the future. 

Legal Claims Filed Against PlayStation:

• Class Action Monopoly Lawsuit: Plaintiffs filed a class action lawsuit against Sony after the company limited the sale of digital PlayStation game codes to its own store, effectively blocking third-party retailers. Legal documents alleged this created an illegal monopoly. In December 2024, Sony agreed to a $7.85 million settlement benefitting approximately 4.4 million customers. 

• Controller “Drift” Allegations: PlayStation was involved in a lawsuit regarding unintended movements on their controllers known as “drift.” Legal documents allege Sony knew about the defect but failed to warn consumers. 

While Sony is involved in the video game addiction lawsuit since PlayStations are one of the most common consoles used to play video games, most claims are filed directly against the manufacturers of the games themselves.

Can You Be Addicted to PlayStation?

Research shows that individuals may become addicted to video games. These games are designed to be immersive and to encourage continued use. Video game addiction, also known as internet gaming disorder, affects approximately 1.7% to 10% of the population in the U.S., most often affecting boys and young men. 

One of the things that makes video games addictive is their compulsion loops, which trigger a dopamine release and encourage players to play excessively. It is believed that video game addiction can cause changes in the brain similar to those observed with gambling addicts. The risk, however,  for addiction generally depends on personal use and susceptibility. In order to combat this, PlayStation has added tools like parental controls, which help promote responsible gaming.

PlayStation Consoles at the Center of the Video Game Addiction Lawsuit

It is alleged that PlayStation 5’s immersive gaming experience and advanced technology may help to contribute to excessive gameplay and the risk of addiction. Games like Fortnite and Call of Duty, which are frequently played on the PlayStation console, are accused of incorporating psychological traits that encourage prolonged, compulsive play, particularly among vulnerable demographic groups such as minors. 

While Sony is generally not the primary defendant of video game addiction lawsuits, the PS5 has been implicated in lawsuits due to its role in hosting games with addictive features.

The Most Addictive PlayStation Games

Certain games may be more addictive than others because of immersive gameplay and captivating features. Lawsuits have been filed across the country accusing game developers of intentionally implementing these addictive features and failing to warn consumers about the potential harm. Many of the games also offer multiplayer modes, increasing the likelihood of longer playing periods and fostering social investment among users. 

Minecraft

Minecraft is a sandbox-style game that allows users endless hours of gameplay, fostering creativity and exploration. Users can play in a creative mode, which enables them to explore, or survival mode, where they must overcome obstacles and threats. The game’s open-ended decision makes it highly replayable. 

Roblox

Roblox is a platform for user-generated games. It has a wide range of gameplay styles. The platform’s constant updates and community make it highly engaging, encouraging excessive play. 

Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V has an expansive open world. It is hyper-realistic, with a number of side activities and a captivating story to keep players engaged. The game offers a competitive multiplayer mode and fosters social interaction that may drive longer playing times.

Call of Duty

Call of Duty is a first-person shooter game with engaging campaigns. The frequent updates and multiplayer modes help to keep players playing. Ranked gameplay is also cited as a potential factor in increasing the likelihood of addiction.

Fortnite

A battle royale format combined with the ability for users to build and create their own environments. Frequent updates, celebrity collaborations, and cosmetic upgrades help to keep players interested and playing.

PlayStation Addiction in Children, Teens, and Adults

Video game addiction affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. While boys and young men are the most vulnerable, research indicates that almost anyone can be susceptible to the condition. 

Video Game Addiction in Children

According to research, approximately 8.5% of youths between the ages of 8 and 18 show signs of video game addiction. Additional studies show that addiction rates for adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 years old range from 4 to 20%. Video game addiction rates are often at their highest for young adults between the ages of 18 and 24, hitting 20%. Males account for the vast majority of cases. 

Addiction can lead to serious problems for adolescents and young adults, including academic decline, neglect of personal responsibilities, social isolation, sleep disturbances, and a sedentary lifestyle.   

Video Game Addiction in Adults

Research indicates that approximately 2% of adults experience video game addiction. Men, however, are significantly more likely to suffer from the condition. One study found that around two-thirds of those addicted were male. The highest prevalence of addiction is among young men between the ages of 18 and 24. Globally, tens of millions of people are believed to suffer from internet gaming disorder. The affliction can impact work, relationships, and mental health.

PlayStation and Video Game Addiction Studies

Several studies indicate that internet gaming disorder is a serious problem affecting a large number of people worldwide. The condition can have a devastating impact on people, negatively affecting their personal and professional lives. 

Neuropsychological Constructs in Gaming Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A 2021 meta-analysis of multiple studies published in Current Behavioral Neuroscience Reports found neurocognitive features in people with internet gaming disorder similar to those with substance use disorder and gambling problems. Affected individuals may have trouble with neurocognitive tasks, lower loss sensitivity, and higher reward sensitivity. 

Empathy and Video Game Addiction in Adolescents: Serial Mediation by Depression and Loneliness

A Turkish study of 324 adolescents between the ages of 11 and 15 found a correlation between lower levels of empathy and higher levels of video game addiction. Psychological resilience and life satisfaction also played a significant role.

Video Game Addiction, Engagement, and Symptoms of Stress, Depression, and Anxiety: The Mediating Role of Coping

A study of 552 adult gamers with an average age of 24.9 years, published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, reviewed the mediating role of coping, studying the relationship between video game addiction, engagement, and mental health. It found that individuals with poor coping skills may be more prone to video game addiction. 

Recovery from Gaming Addiction: A Thematic Synthesis

A study published in 2024 reviewed the personal experience of 225 individuals in recovery from gaming addiction. Researchers found that a multidimensional approach was most effective in implementing help for co-occurring problems and that social support, personal motivation, and alternative interests were also critical. 

Researchers ‘See’ Vulnerability to Gaming Addiction in the Adolescent Brain

A study at the University of Rochester Medical Center of 6,143 video game users between the ages of 10 and 15 over the course of four years found lower brain activity in the decision-making and reward-processing region of participants with a higher number of gaming addiction symptoms.

Symptoms of PlayStation Addiction to Video Games

Video game users and their parents are encouraged to remain vigilant and be aware of potential signs of video game addiction. Boys and young men are at the highest risk of addiction and should seek counseling if symptoms of internet gaming disorder as defined in DSM-5 arise. 

Symptoms of PlayStation or Video Game Addiction:

• Preoccupation with gaming
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Feelings of irritability, anxiety, or sadness when not playing
• Repeated failed attempts to cut back on playing
• Loss of interest in other hobbies
• Prioritizing gaming over personal or professional responsibilities
• Lying about playing video games
• Using video games as a coping mechanism
• Continuing to play video games despite a negative impact on relationships

Sony’s Reaction to PlayStation’s Video Game Addiction Lawsuit

Sony has not publicly commented on allegations that its PlayStation console has contributed to video game addiction. However, the company has continued to face legal scrutiny for overcharging consumers and controller shift problems.

As of January 2025, there have been no reported settlements or judgments in video game addiction lawsuits. Cases continue to be filed nationwide as there are an increasing number of reports of children experiencing video game addiction and substantial spending on in-game purchases linked to compulsive gaming. 

Due to the potential harm of addiction, video game companies are encouraged to address concerns and adopt measures that promote responsible gaming.

Eligibility Criteria for the PlayStation Lawsuit

To file a viable PlayStation gaming addiction lawsuit, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. The best way to determine whether you meet the criteria necessary to file a claim is by consulting with an experienced attorney. 

Eligibility requirements for a PlayStation lawsuit:

• Age: Must be 24 years old or younger.
  

• Use: Must have played a qualifying game on PlayStation for 2 or more hours a day for at least 5 weeks. Qualifying games:

• • • Call of Duty
    • Fortnite
    • Grand Theft Auto V
    • Minecraft 
    • Roblox
      

• Diagnosis: Must have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition, including gamer rage, anxiety, depression, seizures, or orthopedic injuries.
• Treatment: Must have received treatment for a qualifying condition, including outpatient counseling for gaming addiction, inpatient treatment, academic support, or private tutoring.
• Life impact: Successful claims will be able to prove an impact on life, such as suicide attempts, receiving disability related to gaming disorder, missed work or school, or a decline in academic performance.

Evidentiary Support in the PlayStation Lawsuit for Video Game Addiction

Evidence is needed to build a strong case against Sony, the maker of PlayStation, in a video game addiction lawsuit. An attorney can help to determine what documentation may be necessary to help substantiate your claim. 

Evidence necessary to support a video game addiction lawsuit:

• Medical records documenting addiction-related physical and mental health issues
• Financial statements proving in-game purchases (authorized and unauthorized)
• Personal testimony about how the addiction affected your life
• Expert analysis of the addictive nature of video games and the role of PlayStation as a leading console
• Screenshots and game logs indicating hours played
• Documentation of prior attempts to reduce playtime

Recoverable Damages in the PlayStation Lawsuit

Recoverable damages in a PlayStation lawsuit may include compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. These losses may differ significantly from case to case and should be assessed by a qualified attorney. In instances of gross negligence, plaintiffs may qualify for punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish defendants for their intentional misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future. 

Economic damages in a PlayStation lawsuit:

• Medical bills
• Future treatments
• Therapy and counseling costs
• Academic support
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Out-of-pocket losses
• In-game purchases
• Attorney fees and court costs

Non-economic damages in a PlayStation lawsuit:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

How to File a PlayStation Lawsuit

There are several steps that are necessary to file a PlayStation lawsuit. These steps can help to ensure that all legal requirements are met and that your case has the highest likelihood of success. 

Steps to file a PlayStation video game addiction lawsuit:

1. Consult with an attorney: The first step in filing a PlayStation lawsuit is to consult with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help determine whether you meet the eligibility criteria necessary to file a claim.
   
2. Gather information: After the initial consultation, your attorney may advise you to gather the documentation necessary to substantiate your claim. This evidence may include your medical records, mental health evaluations, witness statements, financial statements, academic records, and proof of out-of-pocket losses.
   
3. File the complaint: With the necessary documents in hand, your attorney will file the complaint in the appropriate courthouse. Prior to filing, your attorney will ensure that all legal requirements are met, including that the case is filed within the statute of limitation.
4. Navigate legal process: Once the complaint has been filed, your attorney will help you navigate through the legal process from the discovery stage to the trial and any post-trial appeals or motions.

PlayStation Lawsuit Settlement and Compensation

PlayStation addiction lawsuits are still in the early stages. However, these claims are expected to be resolved for between $100,000 and $300,000. Some cases have the potential to resolve for over $300,000 based on the individual circumstances of the case. 

Several factors may influence the potential payout in the case, including the extent of the damages and the strength of the evidence presented. Individuals affected by video game addiction should contact an experienced attorney to receive a case-specific assessment of the potential value of their case.

Deadlines to File a PlayStation Lawsuit

The legal time limit or statute of limitations for filing a PlayStation addiction lawsuit is state-specific, differing significantly by jurisdiction. It is critical to act promptly to preserve your right to seek compensation. Failure to file within the statute of limitations may result in your claim being denied. 

Individuals affected by video game addiction are encouraged to seek legal counsel as early in the process as possible to secure case-specific assessments about the amount of time they have to file a claim.

Why Choose King Law to Handle Your PlayStation Addiction Case

King Law has extensive experience representing individuals affected by PlayStation addiction. Individuals afflicted with video game addiction are strongly encouraged to reach out to King Law to discuss their legal options. 

Reasons to Choose King Law:

• Formidable reputation 
• Leading mass tort and personal injury law firm
• Access to legal counsel 24/7
• Individualized service and personalized attention to every case
• Comprehensive representation
• No fee unless we win

Contact a PlayStation Video Game Addiction Lawyer

Individuals who suffer from video game addiction or have children who suffer from the condition are encouraged to contact an experienced attorney. The attorneys at King Law will provide a personalized assessment of the case and help to determine whether the eligibility criteria necessary to file a claim are met. King Law lawyers are well-versed in video game addiction lawsuits and will work to pursue the compensation affected individuals deserve. Contact King Law at (585) 496-2648 to schedule an initial consultation. 

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