Call of Duty (CoD) Lawsuit – February 2025 Update

The Call of Duty Lawsuit Is An Active Lawsuit

See If You Qualify!

People are filing product liability lawsuits alleging Call of Duty led to video game addiction and other injuries. These lawsuits accuse Activision Blizzard (a subsidiary of Microsoft) of not properly disclosing the potential dangerous side effects of Call of Duty. Some people who have played this game excessively have experienced depression, anxiety, gamer’s rage, seizures, and other serious conditions. Parents and young people have filed lawsuits against Activision Blizzard in hopes of holding the company accountable for the harms their games caused.

Call of Duty Lawsuit – 2025 Updates

February 3, 2025: New Study Suggests Addiction to Games Like Call of Duty Increases Aggression in Adolescents

A recent study looked to examine the relationship between teen addiction to violent video games and aggressive behaviors. The study found there was a positive correlation between addiction to video games and aggression in adolescents. There was a greater likelihood of aggressive behaviors for teens who are addicted to war and combat games, like Call of Duty. Many parents and young people have filed lawsuits against the makers of Call of Duty (Activision Blizzard) saying the company knowingly designs violent video games that are harmful to children and young people.

January 5, 2025: Lawsuits Filed Against Activision Blizzard Alleging Call of Duty Causes Addiction

Multiple lawsuits have been filed across the country alleging Call of Duty is designed to be addictive and can result in serious mental health issues. Individuals who suffer from video game addiction are encouraged to seek legal representation to determine whether they have a valid claim for compensation. 

October 15, 2024: Microsoft Settles Antitrust Lawsuit

Microsoft, who acquired Activision Blizzard in 2023 for $69 million, settled an antitrust lawsuit filed by gamers for an undisclosed amount. The lawsuit claimed that the acquisition would harm competition in the gaming industry and could increase prices. 

June 5, 2024: JPML Issues Order Denying Transfer of Video Game Addiction Lawsuit

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation issued an order denying the transfer of several lawsuits to multidistrict litigation. In what would have been MDL#: 3109 – In Re: Video Game Addiction Product Liability Litigation, multiple lawsuits filed nationwide would have been centralized to the Western District of Missouri. The JPML, however, found that the cases had substantial differences which did not lend themselves to centralization. However, future MDLs may be requested and approved. People can still proceed with civil lawsuits against Call of Duty.

May 10, 2024: 19 Uvalde, Texas, Families Sue Activision Blizzard, Alleging “Direct Line” Between Call of Duty and School Shooting

Families of the victims of the Uvalde shooting have sued the maker of Call of Duty along with Meta Platforms (owner of Instagram) and Daniel Defense (manufacturer of the AR-style gun used in the shooting), alleging there was a “direct line” between the companies and the shooting. The lawsuit said the shooter had played the video game since he was 15 and that it allowed him to practice with the type of gun he eventually used in the shooting.

April 3, 2023: Justice Department Files Civil Antitrust Lawsuit Against Activision Blizzard

The Department of Justice has filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Activision Blizzard, the maker of Call of Duty. The lawsuit alleges the company imposed rules on their games that limited competition and suppressed wages that could be earned by esports players, violating the Sherman Act.

About the Call of Duty Lawsuit:

What Is Call of Duty and How Does the Video Game Work?

Call of Duty (CoD) is one of the most popular and best-selling video games of all time. As of December 2024, there have been more than 500 million units sold worldwide. It is the premier first-person shooter franchise by Activision Blizzard (now owned by Microsoft). The series is known for its immersive gameplay and engaging multiplayer experiences. Debuting in 2003, the franchise encompasses two dozen different games featuring historical and futuristic settings. 

The games are fast-paced and feature high-quality graphics and realistic elements. Users can go on single-player campaigns or play with others, completing team-based objectives. The franchise offers varied rewards such as new weapons, perks, and upgrades, as well as seasonal content and competitive play for esports professionals.

How Does Call of Duty Cause Addiction?

Complaints filed nationwide allege Call of Duty contains design elements that make it more addictive to players, particularly children, teens, young adults, people with ADHD, and young males. 

Addictive features of Call of Duty:

• Intermittent Rewards: Call of Duty’s variable rewards system, including loot drops and unlockables, helps to trigger a dopamine release and encourages prolonged gameplay. 
• Engagement Efforts: The progression mechanics of the game, such as its leveling up and ranking system, help to promote longer play. 
• Community platform: The game’s community attributes, such as multiplayer capability, chat feature, and competitive nature, encourage users to play longer. 
• Gameplay loop: While the game is easy to play, it is considered difficult to master, appealing to a wide variety of gamers. It is also fast-paced, keeping players engaged. 
• Content Updates: Activision’s frequent updates and limited-time events promote return visits to the game.

These features have led to addiction for many people, who find it difficult to disengage from Call of Duty. State and federal regulators have recognized the seriousness of excessive gaming. “Gaming disorder” has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). A 2012 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that gaming addiction exists. The study, called “Online gaming addiction in children and adolescents: A review of empirical research” found that because games often appeal to children and young adults, these populations may be more vulnerable to addiction. 

Impact of Call of Duty Addiction on Players

Call of Duty addiction can have significant impacts on a person’s mental and physical health. Players and parents should be aware of the potential adverse effects of excessive gameplay. Individuals affected by Call of Duty addiction are encouraged to contact an attorney to determine their legal options. 

Call of Duty addiction can lead to the following problems and injuries:

• Mental health disorders: Call of Duty addiction can lead to increased anxiety and depression caused by emotional dysregulation. 
• Changes in mood or behavior: Excessive gaming may lead to changes in mood and behavior, including increased irritability or aggression. 
• Physical injuries: In some cases, addictive gameplay may cause physical harm, such as repetitive strain injuries and hearing damage.
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances: Excessive gaming can lead to disturbances in sleep, which may affect performance at school or work and impair a person’s cognitive functioning. 
• Social problems: Call of Duty addiction may result in social withdrawal, isolation, or neglecting personal and professional relationships and responsibilities. 

Call of Duty’s Impact on Male Players

A 2020 study found that violent video games can lead to structural changes in the brains of young males. The study, called “Structural brain changes in young males addicted to video-gaming,” examined how first-person shooter games like Call of Duty might negatively impact a male’s brain. The study examined young males who played such games and how grey and white matter in their brains changed. The study concluded that there were substantial changes to brain matter which accounted for, “changes and measures of aggression, hostility, self-esteem and degree of internet addiction pointing to an adverse effect of violent video games.”

Studies like this express concern that games like Call of Duty can lead to changes in personality and a decreased quality of life. If you or your child have experienced such changes, it is important to work with experienced medical and legal professionals who can help you and your family.

Call of Duty Addiction Signs and Symptoms

Parents and family members are encouraged to watch for the signs and symptoms of a Call of Duty addiction. A change in behavior, such as neglecting personal or professional obligations, withdrawing from social interaction, or deteriorating mental health, should be taken seriously. 

Potential signs of Call of Duty addiction:

• Poor academic performance
• Missing work or school
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce playing time
• Neglecting personal or professional responsibilities
• Prioritizing gaming over other obligations 
• Disregarding potential consequences related to gaming
• Social withdrawal
• Changes in behavior
• Heightened irritability
• Anxiety or depression
• Mood swings
• Restlessness or uneasiness when not playing
• Persistent, unrelenting thoughts about gaming
• Repetitive strain injuries 
• Disturbances in sleep
• Decline in personal hygiene

If parents or young people observe any of these warning signs, they should contact a qualified medical professional. Addiction is a serious disease that impacts many aspects of a person’s life. Counseling, medical care, support groups, and other interventions can help people overcome and heal from the issues caused by addiction.

Maker of Call of Duty Responds to Addiction Allegations

Call of Duty maker Activision Blizzard has faced a number of lawsuits claiming the game was intentionally designed to be addictive. The company has filed a motion to dismiss in response to these lawsuits, claiming the complaints lack legal merit. The manufacturer notes that they have implemented a number of features to help deter addiction, including parental controls and community guidelines. 

Call of Duty parental controls allow parents to set time limits for their children, monitor gaming, and restrict in-game purchases. The maker also implemented policies to reduce or eliminate misconduct during multiplayer sessions, such as hate speech, harassment, bullying, and discrimination. 

The company has also engaged in collaboration to promote inclusion, such as teaming up with Code First Girls, which helps to empower women and non-binary individuals working in the tech industry. 

However, many argue that these actions do not do enough to protect young people and vulnerable populations from becoming addicted to Call of Duty. People are continuing to file lawsuits to hold Activision Blizzard accountable.

Eligibility Criteria to File a Call of Duty Lawsuit

To file a Call of Duty addiction lawsuit, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria. The best way to determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements is to consult with an experienced attorney. 

Eligibility requirements for a Call of Duty lawsuit:

• Age: Must be 24 years old or younger. Parents may file on behalf of minor children.
• Usage: Proof of playing a qualifying game for 3 hours or more per day for a minimum of 5 weeks.
• Qualifying games:
  • Call of Duty
  • Grand Theft Auto
  • Fortnite
  • Roblox
  • Minecraft
• Diagnosis: Confirmed diagnosis from a licensed healthcare provider. Qualifying diagnoses include depression, anxiety, gamer’s rage, seizures, or oppositional defiance disorder.

The addiction must have also had a negative impact on your life. Proof of impact on a person’s life includes attempted suicide, receiving treatment for addiction-related injuries (e.g., depression, rage, anxiety, or seizures), an individualized education plan (IEP) related to gaming, or signs of declined academic performance.

Evidence Needed to File a Call of Duty Lawsuit

Call of Duty lawsuits must be substantiated by evidence such as medical records indicating a diagnosis of a gaming-related condition. An attorney with extensive experience in video game addiction lawsuits can help determine what evidence may be necessary to gather to help support your case. 

Evidence needed to file a Call of Duty lawsuit:

• Medical Records: Records documenting addiction-related mental and physical health issues are critical in a video game addiction lawsuit. These records should clearly indicate the diagnosis and treatment for ADHD, depression, anxiety, or other gaming injuries.
  
• Financial Statements: Statements showing out-of-pocket expenses such as in-game purchases, medical bills, or a decline in income due to missed work.
• Personal Testimony: Personal journals and statements showing the impact the gaming addiction had on your life or your personal and professional relationships can help support your argument.  It is strongly recommended that players document gameplay and any attempts to limit playing time.
• Expert Analysis: Expert analysis of the game design and its addictive design elements, such as its variable reward systems and microtransactions, may help to prove your case. Professional opinions about industry practices and regulatory findings are also helpful.
• Academic Records: Records showing a decline in school performance due to the addiction.  
• Mental Health Evaluations: Psychological evaluations and mental health assessments showing the effects of excessive Call of Duty gaming can help to prove your case.
• Usage Logs: Game usage logs show the amount of time you played Call of Duty, including session frequency and duration.
• Witness Statements: Statements or affidavits from family members, friends, coworkers, and teachers about how your Call of Duty addiction led to social or behavioral changes.

Recoverable Damages for a Call of Duty Lawsuit

Recoverable damages in a Call of Duty addiction lawsuit include compensation for economic and non-economic losses. In cases involving gross negligence, individuals may be eligible for punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish a defendant for egregious acts or intentional misconduct and to deter future similar behavior. When a lawsuit is filed, the damages one experiences will determine the amount of compensation that person can receive.

Economic Damages in a Call of Duty Lawsuit:

• Past and Future Medical Expenses: Compensation for costs related to therapy, counseling, mental health treatment for anxiety and depression, and medications.  
• Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: Damages related to missed work or a loss of future earning capacity resulting from the addiction. 
• Academic Support: Individuals who require tutoring, additional academic assistance, or alternative education as a result of their illness may be entitled to additional compensation. 
• Out-of-Pocket Losses: Reimbursement for in-game purchases, particularly unauthorized expenses. 
• Attorney’s Fees and Costs: Compensation for court-related costs, including your attorney’s fees. 

Non-Economic Damages in a Call of Duty Lawsuit:

• Pain and Suffering: Damages related to your physical pain and emotional suffering, including any anxiety, depression, or diminished quality of life caused by your video game addiction. 
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for any impact on your familial relationships. 

Recoverable damages in an Activision Blizzard Call of Duty lawsuit are case-specific and should be reviewed by an attorney. An attorney can help to determine the potential value of your case.

How to File a Call of Duty Lawsuit

There are several steps to filing a Call of Duty lawsuit. It is important to discuss your case with a video game lawsuit attorney as early in the process as possible to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in your case. Parents or guardians can file lawsuits on behalf of minors who are addicted to Call of Duty.

Steps to file a Call of Duty addiction lawsuit:

1. Consult with a Call of Duty Lawsuit Attorney: The first step in a video game lawsuit is to consult with a qualified attorney. An attorney can help evaluate your case to determine eligibility and will walk you through the legal process.
2. Gather the Necessary Evidence: Once eligibility is determined, an attorney can help you gather the evidence necessary to substantiate your claim. Medical records, game usage logs, personal journals, and expert opinions may help to prove your case.
3. File the Claim: Your attorney will then file your claim in the appropriate courthouse. Prior to filing, your attorney will ensure that your lawsuit is submitted within the statute of limitations that governs your jurisdiction.

Call of Duty Lawsuit Settlement and Payout Amounts

Several factors may influence the settlement and payout amounts of a Call of Duty addiction lawsuit. Compensation is expected to vary depending on the extent of damages and the strength of the evidence presented. Potential compensation is estimated to range between $100,000 to $300,000, with extreme cases possibly exceeding $300,000 per person. Individuals suffering from Call of Duty addiction are encouraged to consult with an attorney to secure a case-specific assessment and evaluation. 

Statute of Limitations to File a Call of Duty Lawsuit

The statute of limitations in a Call of Duty addiction lawsuit is state-specific and may depend on a number of factors, including when the addiction was discovered and whether the person was a minor at the time. Due to the complexities of these legal deadlines, it is highly recommended that aggrieved individuals speak with a legal professional about the amount of time they have to file a lawsuit. Failure to file a claim within the statute of limitations could result in a denial of your right to compensation. 

Contact a Call of Duty Addiction Lawyer

Individuals affected by Call of Duty addictions are encouraged to seek legal counsel. A lawyer, well-versed in video game addiction lawsuits, can provide personalized advice and assess the viability of the claim. The attorneys at King Law have extensive experience representing people affected by video game addiction and work tirelessly to ensure their clients receive the compensation they deserve. 

Are you or your child addicted to Call of Duty? Call King Law at (585) 496-2648 to schedule a consultation. Our attorneys provide counsel on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront fees. Legal fees are taken if and when you receive compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)