Publication date: April 5, 2024
Lawsuit claims video game company intentionally makes products addictive
By Movieguide® Contributor
The new lawsuit is a compilation of five previous complaints that hold video game companies liable for intentionally creating addictive games that cause mental disruption to players. .
“Each Defendant recognizes that video games are harmful to minors and young adults because Defendants designed the games to be particularly addictive,” the complaint states. “To take advantage of this, each defendant employs behavioral psychologists and neuroscientists to develop games that take full advantage of psychological tactics to keep players engaged for long periods of time.”
The most egregious examples include loot boxes that are purchased for a set amount of money and provide players with rewards of varying rarity. Players are also rewarded after playing for a certain amount of time, which can encourage long gameplay.
According to the World Health Organization, 8.5% of all gamers suffer from “gaming disorder” due to these habits. According to the World Health Organization, it is an addictive behavior that impairs “an individual, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important area of functioning.” organization.
One of the earlier complaints included in the new lawsuit highlights how gaming disorder can affect a child's life. The complaint states that a 12-year-old boy, identified as GD, spends up to $350 a month on in-game purchases. GD's parents also said, “He has no friends and weighs 300 pounds.” [and] He does not behave well at school and has to be educated at home. ”
The joint lawsuit is expected to follow the precedent of current lawsuits against social media companies for intentionally making their platforms addictive while catering to young audiences. Social media platforms are being held liable because they ignored clear and continuing evidence that their sites caused negative psychological side effects such as depression and anxiety in young users.
It is unclear how the case will turn out, but if both companies are found guilty, the verdict could significantly change the course of the world's largest entertainment industry. The lawsuit names Microsoft, Epic, EA, Ubisoft, and Nintendo as defendants.
Movieguide® previously reported:
Earlier this month, an Arkansas mother filed a lawsuit against major video game companies including Microsoft and Nintendo, claiming their products are too addictive for children.
“When my son started playing video games, he became addicted, severely disrupted his education, lost all interest in spending time with his friends, and put his physical and mental health at risk. I never imagined that,” said the mother who filed the lawsuit with Casey Dunn.
“These video game companies are targeting and exploiting children, putting their interests above all else. As mothers, we want them not to get away with destroying our children's happiness and futures. I knew I had to do something to help,” she added.
The family's attorney, Tina Block, explained how video games can become addictive.
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Now more than ever, we are exposed to the dark side of media, film, and television. Movieguide® has been fighting back to promote uplifting, positive content within Hollywood for nearly 40 years. We are proud to have worked with some of the top players in the industry to influence and redeem Yes entertainment. Still, you are the most influential person in Hollywood. The person who sees it.
There is power in what you hear, see, and read. Movieguide® wants to provide resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can't do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference for just $7. It only takes a moment. If you are able, please consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
