These days video games are such a common part of life that “parents afraid of gaming ruining their kids” feels like a bit of a throwback as far as headlines go. But Fortnite is so huge and so popular, especially among kids, that its relationship with the rest of mainstream culture is unique among games. So only a game like this (and maybe early World of WarCraft) could spark a class-action lawsuit claiming Fortnite is “as addictive as cocaine.”
As reported by USA Today, the lawsuit against Epic Games comes from Montreal law firm Calex Légal. They’re representing parents who claim their young sons became debilitatingly dependent on the battle royale shooter. They accuse the developers of preying on children with the same cynicism of tobacco companies, and similarly harming their health as a result.
Gaming dependency has become a controversial subject of discussion after the World Health Organization officially declared it a real thing earlier this year. Prince Harry himself called for Fortnite to be banned because of how addictive it could be to minors.
Normally I would have dismissed this is typical video game fear mongering. With Fortnite making so much money, of course people want to get a piece (including dancers who do, in fact, deserve a piece). However, the lawsuit specifically mentions the psychological trap Fortnite lays out with its free-to-play loot box mechanics. Casino-style gambling tactics targeted toward kids have become so controversial that world governments are stepping in to regulate them, a course of action I do actually strongly agree with.
Maybe the real issue is these kids play so much Fortnite but aren’t good enough to make real money. I bet the parents of the 16-year-old world champion weren’t complaining when his “addiction” brought home millions of dollars (and an unfortunate swatting). Just get your boys a Fortnite coach with Gamer Sensei.
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