By Canadian Press

B.C. parent launches class-action lawsuit against makers of Fortnite video game

Mar 20, 2023 | 1:28 PM

VANCOUVER — A Vancouver parent has launched a proposed class-action lawsuit against the makers of Fortnite, saying the popular video game is designed to be “as addictive as possible” for children.

In the lawsuit filed in B.C. Supreme Court on Friday, the plaintiff identified only as A.B. says her son downloaded Fortnite in 2018 and “developed an adverse dependence on the game.”

The statement of claim says the game incorporates a number of intentional design choices such as offering rewards for completing challenges and making frequent updates, which encourages players to return repeatedly.

The statement says Fortnite creator Epic Games enriches itself by making content and customization options purchasable via an in-game currency, which are purchased with real cash. 

The class-action lawsuit would still need approval from the court and none of the allegations have been proven in court. 

Local feedback

Year in Review: Westerner Park takes a step in community engagement

4h ago

Year of growth

Year in Review: Red Deer Polytechnic looks back on exciting year

23h ago

FIVE-YEAR INVESTIGATION

Sylvan Laker sentenced to eight years plus restitution in $2.6M fraud case

23h ago

The plaintiff is seeking damages alleging the game breaches the B.C. Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act,  as well as for “unjust enrichment” and medical expenses for psychological or physical injuries, among other claims. 

The lawsuit would cover all persons affected by Fortnite in Canada except Quebec, where in February Epic lost its attempt to appeal the court’s decision there to authorize a similar class-action suit. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2023.

The Canadian Press