Mexico files complaint against Sony over disc phase-out
Mexican consumer authorities filed a formal complaint this month against Sony, arguing the firm’s move away from physical game discs could limit resale, repair and access for some buyers.
Mexican authorities filed a formal complaint this month with federal consumer protection officials against Sony over the company’s decision to phase out boxed video game discs. The filing names Sony’s shift away from physical formats as the central issue and requests a review for possible breaches of Mexican consumer-protection rules.
The complaint argues that removing physical discs can restrict resale, lending and repair options relied on by many buyers. It states those restrictions could disproportionately affect households with limited or unstable internet access and areas with slower broadband. The filing notes physical copies remain important for collectors and for buyers who want to resell or transfer games without depending solely on a digital storefront.
The document asks regulators to examine Sony’s distribution policy and consider whether safeguards are needed to preserve resale, transfer and repair options for consumers in Mexico. The federal agency handling the complaint has the authority to investigate alleged breaches and to recommend remedies, including fines or orders to change commercial practices.
Sony has moved more sales to digital storefronts in recent years, citing global sales trends and the efficiencies of digital delivery. The company has said digital distribution reduces production and logistics costs and speeds publisher access to customers. Sony did not respond to requests for comment on the complaint filed in Mexico.
The filing comes as digital game sales have increased worldwide and physical disc sales have declined. Some console makers and publishers offer hardware without disc drives and promote downloads and subscription services. Consumer groups and used-game retailers have raised concerns about impacts on affordability, ownership rights and preservation of games.
Mexican regulators have not provided a public timetable for their review. The complaint was submitted this month and will be evaluated under the federal agency’s investigative procedures.
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