An American family has filed a lawsuit against several major video game companies, including Activision Blizzard, Microsoft and Epic, alleging their complicity in promoting gaming addiction in minors.
Gaming addiction is described as a “serious, life-altering disorder”
The lawsuit, filed on October 30 by an Arkansas mother on behalf of her child identified as GD, reveals that GD plays games for more than twelve hours a day and spends significant amounts on in-game microtransactions.
As a result, GD reportedly suffered physical discomfort in his hands, shoulders and elbow, leading the family to seek compensation for medical expenses as well as civil and punitive damages and legal fees.
The lawsuit covers a total of 14 actions, including allegations of negligence, deception, and violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act for failing to warn users about the addictive nature of their games. Additionally, video game companies allegedly use a variety of tactics such as ‘rubber-banding’, loot boxes and win-win transactions to lure minors into addiction.
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The lawsuit cites 16 patents as evidence supporting the claim that these companies deliberately designed games to encourage addiction for financial gain. Among these patents, one from Activision stands out, which uses gamers’ behavioral data to create personalized messages that encourage microtransactions.
There is also mention of an EA patent that allows new players to purchase in-game perks at a lower cost than experienced players. While the existence of a patent does not guarantee its direct application in a product, the lawsuit claims that these patents highlight creative methods used to encourage in-game purchases.
The lawsuit alleges that the defendants manufactured, marketed and sold video games, including those played by GD, with the intent to create addiction in users.
Tina Bullock, an attorney with Bullock Ward Mason who represented the plaintiffs, emphasized the seriousness of gaming addiction, describing it as a “serious, life-altering disorder” that profoundly affects children and families across the country. The legal action aims to shed light on these companies’ alleged deceptive practices and exploitation of children for financial gain.
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According to a press release, this lawsuit is claimed to be the first of its kind and more similar lawsuits may be filed in the near future. What are you thinking? Please don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments.