Sony Addresses $200 Million Wrongful Termination Lawsuit from Former Bungie Veteran Barrett

Sony has finally addressed the lawsuit brought by Christopher Barrett, a former Bungie employee. 

Through their legal filings, disclosed by Game File, Sony has presented text messages exchanged between Barrett and female Bungie employees. They argue these messages demonstrate a consistent pattern of inappropriate behavior.

Barrett left Bungie in March 2024, but his departure was later linked to accusations of misconduct towards female colleagues. In response, he filed a lawsuit claiming wrongful dismissal, alleging that being let go cost him $45 million when Sony acquired Bungie in 2022. He’s seeking $200 million in damages.

According to Sony’s filing, Barrett was dismissed because he allegedly “had inappropriate interactions with a female employee not directly under his supervision. Initially, he kept the conversations light, but then overstepped by commenting on her appearance and expressing romantic interest. Barrett tried to foster an unprofessional closeness with his targets.”

The documents also reveal snippets from Barrett’s texts and direct messages sent to the alleged victims.

Barrett’s legal team responded through Game File, accusing Sony of manipulating the evidence. “Sony selectively presents messages and alleged conversations, making unfounded, sweeping claims to smear Christopher and justify avoiding payout obligations under his contracts,” they stated. 

“Notably, Sony doesn’t include the full context of these messages as evidence. Their response fails to legally justify terminating Christopher for cause.”

Barrett remains optimistic, believing that once the full evidence is reviewed, it will prove that Sony devised a plan to remove him from his position unjustly and to deprive him of the equity he rightfully earned during his 25 years with the company.