All images via PlayStation//

Customers could earn back enough to buy even more video games.

A new legal claim has alleged that Sony has been overcharging PlayStation gamers for six years, forcing a potential $8.56 billion (AUD) payout should the claim be successful. According to a report from Sky News, Sony — who created PlayStation in the early ‘90s — is being sued by a UK consumer rights body, who allege that the gaming giant has imposed unfair terms and conditions on the PlayStation Store. 

The filing claims that PlayStation puts a commission of 30 percent on all games sold via its online store, which often results in the prices of digital content being higher than a physical copy of the same title. In total, up to nine million customers could receive a payout from the lawsuit, ranging anywhere from $104 to $135 (AUD).

While the payouts are only claimable for gamers in the UK, the lawsuit could hold worldwide implications, especially in Australia where some 2.4 million people own a PlayStation 4. Alex Neill, who leads the consumer rights organisation, said the filing “[stands] up for the millions of people who have been unwittingly overcharged.”

“Sony has abused its position and ripped off its customers,” Neill added. The news comes a day after PlayStation announced that the second generation of its virtual reality headset will be released in a few months. The upcoming version will arrive with over 20 games, and is expected to hit shelves in early 2023.