Sony Interactive Entertainment has officially released a statement on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Sony has suspended all software and hardware shipments, the launch of Gran Turismo 7, and operations of the Playstation Store in Russia. The statement came before the State of Play showcase held on March 9. It was also posted on the Playstation Instagram and Twitter page.
— PlayStation (@PlayStation) March 9, 2022
Sony Releases Official Statement
A representative from Sony released a statement. The statement reads as follows: “Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) joins the global community in calling for peace in Ukraine,” the company said.
“To support humanitarian aid, Sony Group Corporation announced a $2 million donation to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the international NGO, Save the Children, to support the victims of this tragedy,” the company statement added.
SIE Takes a Stand
Sony will be joining a long list of corporate entities taking a financial stand against Russia’s role in the conflict with Ukraine.
Last week, Xbox President and Vice-Chair of Microsoft, Brad Smith announced Microsoft is suspending all new sales of Microsoft products and services in Russia. At that point, Sony had quietly pulled Gran Turismo 7 from Russian markets ahead of its March 4 release.
Nintendo has temporarily shut down the Russian version of the Nintendo eShop. It is unclear if Nintendo itself instituted the shutdown. Nonetheless, they have not released an official statement yet.
Epic Games and Activision-Blizzard have also shut down its accessibility in Russian markets. Both companies have provided statements. Electronic Arts have pulled the Russian National Team from FIFA 22 and NHL 22.
Let us know how you are feeling below about Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo’s reaction to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Take the conversation further at the official SGO Discord Server.
As always, Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved in this tragedy.