Epic Games, Activision, Microsoft and More Sued Over Video Game Addiction

A lawsuit that was filed on the 30th of October 2023, states that Epic Games, Activision and Microsoft knowingly caused video game addiction. It is claimed that companies such as Epic Games, Activision, Microsoft, Blizzard, EA and others have used patented designs, marketing and algorithms that contained addictive technology and features which has led to addiction.

The claim says that addictive features and designs utilized predatory monetization schemes, data collection of minors and feedback loops that kept players more engaged.

The claim has been made by the Dunn Family who are suing the companies for changing how games are designed and offered, monetary recovery and additional mental health resources for families who may face having to deal with and treat their children who may become addicted to video games.

Below is a quote from Casey Dunn, the mother of the child who became addicted to video games:

We never imagined when our son started playing video games that he would become so addicted that his education would severely suffer, he would lose all interest in spending time with his friends, and his physical and mental health would be at risk,” said Casey Dunn, the mother who filed the lawsuit on behalf of her child. These video game companies have targeted and taken advantage of kids, prioritizing their profit over all else. As a mom, I knew I had to do something to ensure they don’t get away with destroying the wellbeing and futures of our children.

It has been said that the Dunn Family is suing for the following:

Changing how games are designed and offered
Mental health resources are offered to families who are faced with treating young children who are addicted to gaming
Monetary recovery

Tina Bullock who is the family's attorney has said that she believes addiction to video games is serious and it should be treated as such.

Quoted below by Tina Bullock:

Gaming addiction is a serious, life-altering disorder that is stealing children’s lives and disrupting families across the country,” Bullock said. “Parents like me often mistakenly think it is a failure on their part when their child becomes addicted, but through this litigation, we hope to shine a light on these companies’ reprehensible actions, deceit, and manipulation of our children for their own financial gain.

Whilst we know video game addiction is possible, it can come about for many reasons and not just in terms of how companies advertise their games or what they offer in their games.

This is a very serious lawsuit and will be treated as one but going up against as many video game publishers could go either way.

What are your thoughts on this lawsuit?