The role of copyright law in the video game industry.

The U.S. copyright system encourages and supports creative game development and innovative distribution models. This is particularly true in the case of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), which contains two provisions critical to the vitality of the video game industry.

Section 1201’s Important Anti-Circumvention Framework. Video game software and devices use a series of digital protections, referred to as technological protection measures (TPMs), to safeguard the content played on platforms from illegal copying and distribution. Under Section 1201, it is unlawful to bypass these TPMs or distribute tools intended to help others bypass them. Protecting the integrity of the video game ecosystem from infringing activities is necessary to ensure that consumers can enjoy rich and immersive video game experiences. 

Section 512’s Existing Safe Harbor Provisions. Section 512 provides rights holders a streamlined process for removing infringing content and affords online service providers with safe harbors if they expeditiously remove copyrighted content when notified by copyright owners. 

The importance of copyright enforcement in protecting creative content.

As digital offerings become more common, enforcement approaches must also keep pace. Working closely with government agencies and other stakeholders on forward-looking strategies remains essential to addressing illegal online operations and blocking the importation of infringing goods into the U.S.

An effective patent law system protects the video game ecosystem.

The innovations that video game audiences enjoy rely on strong patent protections. 

An effective patent system encourages innovation by securing legal protections for inventions, allowing inventors to recoup their research and development costs, and enabling the commercialization of those inventions.

Trademark protections must keep pace with the rapidly evolving video game marketplace.

Trademark protections ensure brand integrity and consumer confidence in these brands. . Such practices include adequate tools to prevent third parties from the unauthorized use of protected marks, and laws and policies that encourage the use of active marks in commerce and accurate trademark registers.

Key Issues

AI photo of video games

Artificial Intelligence

The video game industry has been using artificial intelligence for decades to help create games and improve the player experience. New AI tools have the potential to drive further innovation.

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Digital Wellness

Billions of people globally, of all ages and backgrounds, play video games in a healthy, balanced way.

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Esports

Competitive video gaming creates jobs, spurs economic growth and encourages tourism.

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First Amendment

Freedom of expression helps ensure the creativity and innovation of video games.

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In-Game Purchases

In-game purchases make additional content and ongoing online services possible, offering consumers the option to pay for what they want and skip what they don’t.

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Inclusion & Belonging

When players see characters and stories that reflect our diverse society, we can expand their understanding, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy.

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Player Safety

The industry is an innovator in online safety, investing in the development and continual evolution of safety features, putting the player community first.

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Privacy

The video game industry provides consumers with transparency, choice and control when it comes to managing personal information.

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Right to Repair

Right to repair mandates present unique security and piracy risks to the video game ecosystem.

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Subscription Services

Subscription-based models save consumers money, provide predictability and allow customized experiences.

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Trade

Fair and open access to international markets fuels the industry’s potential for growth.

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Workforce

Video game companies work diligently to attract and employ the best talent available to continue growing the industry and contributing to the U.S. economy.