Sony and Microsoft seeking to dismiss consumer lawsuits demanding tariff refunds

Sony and Microsoft are asking US courts to dismiss class action lawsuits claiming consumers should receive refunds linked to tariffs on PlayStation 5 and Xbox consoles.

According to Game File, the lawsuits followed console price increases in 2025 that consumers allege were driven by tariffs later ruled unlawful by the US Supreme Court.

Sony has asked a federal judge in California to dismiss the case, arguing it has no legal obligation to pass tariff refunds on to customers.

Its lawyers said console prices were influenced by inflation, exchange rates, component and logistics costs, competition and consumer demand.

"Had tariffs been the reason for the original price increase, there would have been no justification for raising prices again post-tariff invalidation," Sony's legal team said.

"If tariffs solely influenced price alterations, price reductions would be expected after their removal. Instead, the pricing strategy reflects various input costs."

Microsoft has also sought dismissal of a separate lawsuit in Washington state.

"There is nothing unfair about a customer buying an Xbox at the stated price and receiving what they paid for, irrespective of later claims about Microsoft's pricing strategy," Microsoft argued.

Nintendo has separately sought dismissal of a similar lawsuit. 

Meanwhile, Playdate maker Panic has refunded tariff surcharges to customers after receiving a government refund.