Sony has recently addressed the lawsuit by Christopher Barrett, a former staff member of Bungie.
In their response, publicized by Game File, Sony presented text messages exchanged between Barrett and some female Bungie employees. According to Sony, these messages allegedly illustrate a “pattern of misconduct” on Barrett’s part.
Barrett left Bungie in March 2024 amid accusations of inappropriate conduct towards female colleagues at the studio. Following his departure, Barrett filed a lawsuit, disputing wrongful termination and seeking $200 million in damages. He contends that his exit cost him $45 million promised in Sony’s 2022 acquisition of Bungie.
In its statement, Sony reiterated that Barrett’s termination was linked to his alleged behavior, saying, “He focused on a lower-level female employee he didn’t directly work with, starting with friendly chats and gradually crossing boundaries. He would subtly comment on her appearance or express romantic interest, trying to establish an unprofessional rapport.”
Sony’s filing also includes excerpts of texts and direct messages Barrett supposedly sent to these employees.
In response, Barrett’s legal team told Game File that, “Sony is selectively presenting messages, making claims without basis to damage Christopher’s reputation, and justify avoiding the compensation he was due according to his contracts.”
They added, “Sony fails to show the complete text messages or full dialogues as exhibits, offering no real legal or factual grounds for his termination. Christopher believes that when all evidence is laid out, it will reveal a calculated effort by Sony to remove him and withhold his deserved equity and position after 25 years of dedicated service.”
