Sony Addresses $200 Million Wrongful Termination Lawsuit Filed by Bungie Veteran Barrett

Sony has recently addressed a lawsuit initiated by Christopher Barrett, a former employee of Bungie.

In the latest developments, PlayStation, as reported by Game File, has revealed a set of text messages between Barrett and some female staffers at Bungie. Sony suggests these messages uncover a “pattern of misconduct.”

Barrett had exited Bungie in March 2024, and it was subsequently revealed that allegations of inappropriate behavior towards female colleagues prompted his departure. He has since filed a lawsuit against the company, asserting wrongful dismissal and seeking $200 million in damages. He claims that his abrupt exit cost him $45 million, an amount he was due to receive following Sony’s acquisition of Bungie in 2022.

Sony’s court documents emphasize that Barrett was dismissed due to alleged actions involving “a lower-level female employee he wasn’t directly partnered with.” Initially, he engaged in a seemingly friendly conversation with her but gradually crossed professional boundaries with subtle remarks about her appearance or romantic interest. Sony accuses him of cultivating an unprofessional intimacy with his alleged victims.

The documents also include extracts from Barrett’s text and direct message exchanges with these employees.

Barrett’s legal team, in response to Sony’s claims, stated to Game File, “Sony continues to selectively present text messages and alleged interactions, making unfounded statements to tarnish Christopher’s reputation and justify his termination, thereby avoiding financial obligations outlined in his employment contract.”

They further pointed out, “It’s notable that Sony has refrained from including the complete text of these messages or conversations in their exhibits. Sony’s response lacks a solid legal or factual basis for terminating Christopher for cause.”

The legal representatives expressed confidence, saying, “Christopher is certain that once all the evidence comes to light, it will demonstrate that Sony orchestrated a plan to deprive him of his position and the equity rewards he earned over his 25 years of dedicated service.”