Webinar: How to solve esports disputes?

In a recent YouTube webinar titled “eSports Disputes: What do they look like and how do we resolve them?”, industry experts delved into the intricate legal challenges that the esports world faces. We provide a brief summary of the session and recommend watching the video on YouTube:

Introduction (00:00:00)

The session kicked off with an introduction to the topic, emphasizing the legal disputes in the gaming and esports sectors. The panel of experts included Leonid Shmatenko from Eversheds Sutherland, and Alexia Gkoritsa and Oscar Suarez from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Legal Challenges in Esports (00:05:00)

The speaker outlined the legal issues in esports, drawing parallels with traditional sports. Issues ranged from doping and cheating to betting fraud and labor law concerns. The importance of alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, was underscored.

Types of Esports Disputes (00:10:00)

The discussion shifted to specific esports disputes, like cheating and match-fixing. The role of regulatory bodies like the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) was highlighted, emphasizing the need for a dedicated arbitration system.

Resolving eSports Disputes (00:15:00)

Various esports entities, including PUBG Mobile and Zwift, have their arbitration rules. The fragmented nature of the esports scene makes it challenging to have a unified approach to dispute resolution.

Stakeholders in Dispute Resolution (00:20:00)

The speaker identified the various stakeholders in esports disputes, emphasizing the need for quick online dispute resolution tailored to the industry’s unique challenges.

WIPO’s Role in Esports (00:25:00)

The session delved into the role of WIPO in resolving intellectual property disputes in the gaming and esports sectors. The global nature of esports disputes often involves patents, copyrights, and trademarks.

Alternative Dispute Resolution in Esports (00:30:00)

The speaker explained the use of ADR in the esports industry, highlighting its voluntary nature and the importance of confidentiality.

Tailored Dispute Resolution (00:35:00)

The discussion emphasized the need for a dispute resolution system tailored to the video game and esports industry, considering the unique challenges posed by internationalization and cross-border enforcement.

Challenges in Dispute Resolution (00:40:00)

The session explored the unique challenges in the video game and esports sectors, emphasizing the balance between tangible and intangible elements.

Types of Esports Disputes (00:45:00)

The panel discussed various disputes, from copyright infringements to unauthorized streaming. The selection of arbitrators was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of understanding the competitive gaming scene.

Balancing Transparency and Anonymity (00:50:00)

The speakers delved into the challenge of maintaining confidentiality while providing insights into proceedings, especially in the digital environment.

Anonymity in Mediation (00:55:00)

The discussion revolved around the concept of anonymity in mediation, especially in cases with a power imbalance between parties.

Private Mediation Meetings (01:00:00)

The webinar concluded with a discussion on mediation, emphasizing their effectiveness in resolving disputes.

It provided valuable insights into the evolving world of esports disputes and their resolution, highlighting the industry’s unique challenges and the need for tailored solutions.

Organized by ArbTech and moderated by Elisabeth Zoe Everson, Associate Lalive, Co-founder/Moderator ArbTech.