Video game developers invest heavily in creating games that players can’t put down. And according to a growing number of video game addiction lawsuits, these efforts are a potential cause of internet gaming disorder (IGD), characterized by a lack of control over gaming habits and an inability to stop gaming despite real-life negative consequences.
Gaming disorder lawsuits seek to hold developers accountable for manipulative design patterns that cause or worsen IGD, such as microtransactions, dark patterns, and reward loops. They are currently consolidated under California JCCP No. 5363, which alleges that companies intentionally design their product to be addictive to minors and children. These suits are currently under “no-guarantee” status, meaning the court hasn’t determined if defendants are liable, and compensation is not available at this time.
Despite the current legal status, proceedings are ongoing, and you or a family member could soon be eligible for damages due to injury from video game addiction. So is it time to speak to a gaming addiction lawyer? Read on to learn more about gaming addiction claims and what to do if you think you qualify.
Eligibility for Gaming Addiction Lawsuit: Do You Qualify?
In order to file an internet gaming disorder claim, you must:
- Be an individual 22 years or younger with video game addiction, or a parent or legal guardian acting on a minor’s behalf
- Have a formal, medical diagnosis of Internet Gaming Disorder based on DSM-5 criteria
- Documented psychological, physical, academic, and/or financial harm due to gaming addiction
Gordon & Partners Law Firm may be able to help you file a claim if you can prove heavy use of Fortnite, Roblox, or Minecraft and have evidence of associated harm.
We are not currently accepting clients with adult-onset gaming addiction issues or those without damages, a lack of documented impairment, or a willingness to share relevant records. If you are not sure if you qualify for a video game addiction lawsuit, contact us for a free, no-obligation case review.
Evidence for a Gaming Disorder Lawsuit
If California JCCP No. 5363 proceeds, successful claims will require ample evidence to show a connection between a game developer’s practices and the development of IGD and damages.
| Category | Example Evidence |
|---|---|
| Internet Gaming Disorder Diagnosis | Medical records, clinician notes, treatment records |
| Internet Gaming Disorder Diagnosis | Report cards, therapy notes, statements from teachers or coaches |
| Excessive Gameplay | Gaming history reports, financial records, in-app purchase logs, chat logs |
Developers Mentioned in Video Game Lawsuits
The following game developers are mentioned in the JCCP video game addiction lawsuit consolidation:
- Fortnite: Fortnite addiction lawsuit claims allege harm due to manipulative design aspects aimed at children, such as microtransactions, time-limited events, and daily rewards.
- Roblox and Minecraft: Allegations of addictive user-generated content systems, social interaction loops, and predatory spending patterns.
Other companies noted in video game addiction claims include Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, Rainbow Six, and Battlefield.
Video Game Addiction Lawsuit Status
California JCCP No. 5363, the consolidated manipulative game design lawsuit, is already established, and a coordinated judge has been assigned in Los Angeles. Add-on cases are pending, with progress depending on the judge’s decision regarding developer liability for video game addiction.
Other legal avenues are also being pursued. This includes consumer protection actions like FTC/Epic Games refunds, which are separate from video game injury lawsuits. There are also those pursuing individual lawsuits against game companies. These lawsuits have mixed outcomes and are often complicated by user agreements in games that force disputes into arbitration instead of the courtroom.
Potential Video Game Addiction Compensation
Information on video game addiction settlement amounts is not available at this time, and no global settlements have been announced. Outcomes in gaming addiction lawsuits will depend on liability status, venue, and strength of evidence, and could eventually cover both monetary and non-monetary damages.
Do You Need a Video Game Addiction Lawyer?
Gordon & Partners Law Firm has more than three decades of experience protecting consumers against predatory businesses. Our attorneys accept clients nationwide and can work with you to choose a strategic venue for your video game injury claim (state lawsuit vs. JCCP claim).
Benefits of working with Gordon & Partners on your video game microtransactions lawsuit include access to a dedicated records team, as well as bilingual support, a commitment to transparency, and a contingency fee structure that ensures you don’t pay anything until you win.
There are no upfront costs for our legal services. Call or chat now to speak with a lawyer about next steps and potential gaming disorder compensation.
Our Video Game Lawsuit Process
We may assist with the following actions:
- Intake: We’ll conduct an initial consultation to discuss your claim and possible legal options.
- Records Retrieval: Our records team will gather and organize evidence in support of your internet gaming addiction claim.
- Eligibility Review: We will assess the strength and validity of your claim based on available evidence.
- Filing: If warranted, we may file your claim via an individual lawsuit or as an add-on to California JCCP No. 5363.
- Discovery: Your claim may be evaluated in court and, if eligible for compensation, you will be provided with a settlement offer.
- Negotiation: We will seek to get you maximum compensation for your claim, which may include settlement offer negotiations.
Note that lawsuits for video game addiction are at an early stage, and this process may change.
How to File a Video Game Addiction Claim
Internet gaming disorder is a real condition with very serious consequences. If you believe you or a minor dependent were harmed by manipulative gaming developer practices and you would like to file a claim:
Step 1: Schedule a free case review with a video game addiction lawyer.
Step 2: Undergo records and eligibility review.
Step 3: Proceed with an individual lawsuit or add it as an add-on to the JCCP.
Speak with a Gaming Addiction Attorney for Free
Talk to a Gordon & Partners lawyer for free about your potential video game addiction lawsuit. We offer 24/7 case reviews with no upfront fees, and are always available to discuss your claim.
For more information, please call or chat today.
