As video games get more popular, companies that design, sell, and distribute these games need to be aware of protecting their intellectual property rights. IP issues in the video game development industry are expanding into many new areas such as the metaverse, esports, and blockchain technology. Intellectual property attorneys can help creators, publishers, and others in the industry safeguard their rights.

Intellectual Property in eSports

Electronic sports, or eSports, is a fast-growing niche that allows gamers to join teams and compete against players all over the world. Spectators can watch and, in some cases, bet on these games. As with all types of gaming, intellectual property rights are crucial in esports. Intellectual property in eSports may involve multiplayer tournaments and competitions. Disputes may arise at these events involving contracts between players and companies, broadcast rights, prizes, or fairness in determining winners.

Recent Disputes Involving Video Games

The following are a few industry examples of the types of cases and disputes that can occur in the video gaming sector.

• A case raises the question of whether reproducing a tattoo in a game is a violation of tattoo artists’ intellectual property. The wider issue is whether intellectual property in the “real world” transfers to virtual worlds.
• The popular video game Fortnite was banned on iPhones and other Apple devices at one point following a legal dispute between Apple and Epic, the creator of Fortnite, over Apple’s billing policies.
• The Strickland vs Sony case raised the question of whether video games may incite real world violence. Sony, the maker of Grand Theft Auto, was sued after someone allegedly influenced by the game shot two police officers. The court ruled in favor of Sony. However, this case illustrates the type of accusations video game creators may face.

Services Offered by Video Game Attorneys

Bochner PLLC is experienced in all facets of intellectual property law. There are many scenarios where a party may need our services as it pertains to video games and esports.

• Intellectual property protection
  Game creators and publishers need to be mindful of protecting their rights. Video game copyright issues may involve characters, software, or the theft of entire games. 
• Dispute resolutions
  Video game attorneys are essential for resolving copyright and other intellectual property issues. A game creator or publisher may have a dispute involving another party violating intellectual property or related issues. Disputes may involve individuals or companies. 
• Negotiating deals
  An experienced attorney is necessary for any type of business deal involving video games. This may include the buying or selling of games or entire companies. 
• Employee disputes and relations
  As in any industry, companies in fields such as video games and esports may have employee disputes. These may include personal disputes or instances of copyright infringement by employees.