Activision is facing a lawsuit from two popular gamers who believe it is illegally controlling the CoD esports market. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
In the world of video games, two popular Call of Duty (CoD) pros are suing the game owner over his “monopolistic” control of the eSports scene.
Seth ‘Scump’ Abner and Hector ‘H3CZ’ Rodriguez have teamed up to take down Activision Blizzard Inc., arguing that the game developer has an “illegal monopoly” on CoD esports through the Call of Duty League (CDL). according to Bloomberg Lawthe affected teams are seeking $680 million in the lawsuit.
Activision has completely dominated the market
Although Activision used to organize CoD leagues with multiple partners, including GameStop Corp and Major League Gaming, the developer ended those relationships in 2019. Now, according to the lawsuit, Activision has taken complete control of the market, and is making it more difficult for players.
Among the issues cited in the filing, prosecutors highlighted that Activision forced players to pay an “extortionate $27.5 million” entry fee to compete in the CDL. The pair also objected to Activision’s “exclusive right to contract with the most lucrative sponsors.” They claim that this limits the amount players can make through such deals.
Scump and H3CZ claim that Activision is preventing players from making money in other ways as well. Per Activision rules, players participating in the CDL cannot play in other CoD leagues or tournaments. Players are also unable to monetize friendly competitions which have no impact on CDL standings.
