A Potential Lawsuit Against Valve Might Have You Rethinking The Value Of Steam Sales
A Dutch consumer group is threatening to sue Valve over alleged anti-competitive practices that drive up game prices, specifically targeting price-parity obligations and high commissions.Summary
A Dutch consumer organization, Stichting Consumenten Competition Claims (CCC), has filed a class action claim against Valve, alleging that the company restricts competition and artificially inflates game prices through practices like price-parity obligations and a 30% commission on sales. The CCC claims these practices force publishers to keep prices high, even during sales, and seeks €220 million in damages for Dutch players. While the CCC is currently seeking a settlement without court involvement, it is also encouraging Dutch citizens to sign up for potential compensation if the lawsuit proceeds. Although the CCC has a history of suing major companies, legal experts have expressed skepticism about the success of such claims, and Valve has faced previous legal challenges with mixed results.
(Source：BGR)