Sony and Valve could be in some trouble soon, as authorities in Poland investigate PlayStation and Steam for alleged anti-competitive practices. Poland's Office for Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) is concerned about the way some digital game stores operate.
For that reason, it launched an investigation involving Steam, the PlayStation Store, as well as 2 development studios and 2 distributors that were not disclosed for now. In case of finding evidence of anti-competitive practices, the regulator will fine the companies with a significant sum.
Investigation could cost Sony and Valve millions
The UOKiK has already got down to business and recently inspected the offices of Sony and other companies in Poland. Its goal is to analyze the evidence collected to confirm or rule out possible anti-competitive practices.
Specifically, it is looking for signs of abuse of dominant position or prohibited agreements in the digital game distribution sector. The agency argues that such practices can harm all other companies and gamers alike, as they impact distribution and pricing.
“Gamers are increasingly less likely to buy games in boxes but are sourcing digital copies on online sales platforms. At the same time, we see that there may be restrictive practices by major players in this market”, said Tomasz Chróstny, chairman of the regulator.
In case evidence of anticompetitive practices is found, companies will be fined. The amount will be up to 10% of their annual profits, so it would be a significant sum.
In addition, UOKiK is also seeking to sanction the managers who participated in such practices with a fine of up to $507,000 USD. At the time of this writing, the investigation is still ongoing, so it is not known what the status of each company is.
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