In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the impact of Apple's restrictive platform strategies on consumers and developers. He provides an in-depth analysis of the Sherman Act and its implications, discusses the legality of Apple's walled garden model, and evaluates the Department of Justice's claims against Apple's conduct. DOCUMENTS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE EARLY ARTICLES/DOJ PRESS RELEASE https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/apple-sued-by-biden-administration-in-landmark-case-over-iphone-monopoly/ar-BB1kijdH https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-21/apple-google-set-to-be-hit-by-first-probes-under-eu-digital-law https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/read-the-lawsuit-united-states-v-apple/ar-BB1kikAz https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-delivers-remarks-lawsuit-against-apple-monopolizing HOUSE ANTITRUST FINDINGS https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CPRT-117HPRT47832/pdf/CPRT-117HPRT47832.pdf ENFORCEMENT STANDARDS https://www.justice.gov/archives/atr/competition-and-monopoly-single-firm-conduct-under-section-2-sherman-act-chapter-1 https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-withdraws-report-antitrust-monopoly-law THE LAWSUIT https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.njd.544402/gov.uscourts.njd.544402.1.0_3.pdf APPLE RESPONSE https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/21/24107784/apples-response-to-the-dojs-iphone-antitrust-lawsuit

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the internet drama around video games and gamergate, with a focus on the controversy surrounding Steam Curator "Sweet Baby Inc." He explores the company's role within the gaming industry, its storytelling methods, and potential legal action against them. Richard also discusses Sweet Baby Inc's involvement in Alan Wake 2 and encourages listener engagement. STEAM https://steamcommunity.com/groups/sweetbabyinc-detected/curation https://help.steampowered.com/en/faqs/view/6862-8119-C23E-EA7B https://store.steampowered.com/online_conduct?snr=100601___ https://store.steampowered.com/subscriber_agreement DISCORD https://discord.com/terms/ SBI https://sweetbabyinc.com/ HARASSMENT LAW https://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9a.46.020 https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&sectionNum=527.6. KOTAKU https://kotaku.com/sweet-baby-inc-consulting-games-alan-wake-2-dei-1851312428 AFTERMATH https://aftermath.site/sweet-baby-detected-conspiracy-theory-steam GUARDIAN https://www.theguardian.com/games/2024/mar/08/gamergate-trolls-woke-game-consultants OTHER ARTICLES https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/a-company-called-sweet-baby-inc-has-become-the-target-of-anti-woke-gamers-because-it-offers-consultancy-work-an-industry-standard-service-thats-been-normal-for-years/

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into Nintendo's lawsuit against Yuzu, discussing the intricacies of copyright laws, fair use, and game archival in the US. He examines the DMCA, the lawsuit against Tropic Haze LLC, and misconceptions about selling and fair use in copyright law. The episode also explores Yuzu's decryption process, game piracy, and its impact on Nintendo customers, along with potential outcomes of the case and the concept of equitable relief. LAWSUIT https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/27/24085075/nintendo-switch-emulator-yuzu-lawsuit LAW https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/106 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/107 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/117 https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/1201 https://www.copyright.gov/title37/201/37cfr201-40.html PRECEDENT https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/summaries/sony-connectix-9thcir2000.pdf https://casetext.com/case/sony-computer-entertainment-america-v-bleem https://cdn.loc.gov/copyright/1201/2015/registers-recommendation.pdf YUZU https://yuzu-emu.org/help/quickstart/ https://www.patreon.com/yuzuteam COMMENTARY/QUESTIONS https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2024/02/how-strong-is-nintendos-legal-case-against-switch-emulator-yuzu/ https://twitter.com/moduletux/status/1762857731986256096 (0:00) Introduction: Nintendo's lawsuit against Yuzu (7:08) Copyright laws, fair use, and archival for games in the United States (14:18) The DMCA and fair use (21:20) Lawsuit against Tropic Haze LLC (39:46) Sponsor: Karen

In this episode, Richard Hoeg explores the Microsoft and Activision Blizzard layoffs and the role of investors. He touches on the departure of leadership personnel, the role of unions, and outsourcing customer support. Richard also delves into the state of the gaming industry, addresses listener queries, and dives into the future of game development. DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE HEADLINE https://www.ign.com/articles/microsoft-lays-off-1900-staff-from-its-video-game-workforce https://twitter.com/IdleSloth84_/status/1750837893881336292 TWEETS https://twitter.com/JezCorden/status/1750590022842278391 https://twitter.com/TheLyns/status/1750740015095873559 https://twitter.com/Andy_VGC/status/1750548893425676435 ECONOMIC ANALYSIS https://www.matthewball.vc/all/gaming2024 (0:00) Introduction and background (1:16) Microsoft and Activision Blizzard merger and layoffs (9:21) Role of investors and stockholders in a corporation (16:05) Departure of leadership personnel (19:19) Role of unions (24:19) Outsourcing of customer support and future of Xbox in retail (26:05) Cancellation of Blizzard's unnamed game and related layoffs (29:03) State of the gaming industry, layoffs, and the impact of generative AI (37:14) Listener queries on gaming industry trends and transition of Activision Blizzard (49:10) Future of game development, types of redundancies, and potential layoffs (57:21) The future of gaming, console preferences, and potential acquisitions (59:08) Closing remarks and disclaimers

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the ethical and legal implications of Palworld's design, including a detailed analysis of its copyright controversy. He explores international copyright laws, the concept of true copies, and potential infringements. He also discusses the likelihood of Nintendo taking legal action. (0:00) Introduction (1:22) Discussion on the ethical and legal implications of Palworld's design (7:56) Response from former Pokemon company legal team member and analysis of specific design similarities (15:01) In-depth discussion on Palworld's copyright controversy (24:32) Deep dive into the foundations of international copyright laws (33:20) Examination of the concept of true copies, substantial similarity, and fair use in copyright law (41:29) Potential for legal action against Palworld and the likelihood of Nintendo taking action (49:35) Exploration of the art and gameplay of Palworld and Pokemon and their potential copyright infringement issues (57:12) Richard Hoeg's predictions on the future evolution of Palworld's game design and the influence of its success on future Pokemon games (1:07:09) Discussion on the political implications of Pal World's gameplay and comparison to other games (1:15:55) Continuation on the Nintendo and Palworld legal issues and a look at the design elements and intellectual property (1:31:03) Wrap-up, thanks to listeners, and end of episode

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses The New York Times' lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI, delving into copyright laws related to AI. He explores the transition of The New York Times to a digital model and legal complexities involved. Richard analyzes the challenges posed by AI models and transformative technologies, as well as the legal claims in the lawsuit. He also considers the impact on educational use of copyrighted materials and the need for fair use revision. The episode concludes with a discussion on AI-produced content ownership and its potential impacts. (0:00) Introduction and Overview: The New York Times Suing Microsoft and OpenAI (9:44) Deep Dive into Copyright Laws and AI (23:00) The Shift of The New York Times to a Digital Model (32:45) Roles of Different Companies and Legal Complexities (49:42) Challenges Posed by Generative AI Models and Transformative Technologies (1:02:23) Detailed Analysis of Legal Claims (1:14:14) Impact on Educational Uses of Copyrighted Materials and the Need for Fair Use Revision (1:29:20) OpenAI's Response to The New York Times Lawsuit and Fair Use Argument (1:33:43) Discussion on Ownership of AI-produced Content and Its Impact on Various Fields (1:44:23) Closing Remarks, Viewer Comments, and Future Plans

In this episode, Richard Hoeg and Mrs. Hoeg Law discuss stroke prevention and post-stroke anxiety. They reflect on the future, explore the perspective of co-counsel, and discuss realigning life priorities after a stroke. (0:00) Introduction (0:52) Stroke Prevention Discussion and Advice (2:29) Continuity (4:43) Post-Stroke Anxiety and Self-Doubt (6:10) Reflection on Future (7:06) Co-counsel's Perspective (10:05) Realigning Life Priorities (12:00) We Start Again

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the leadership changes following Activision's acquisition, the end of Activision Blizzard's hybrid work model for QA staff, and their settlement of a California discrimination lawsuit. He also explores Microsoft's role in the settlement and speculates about a potential new CEO at Activision. (0:00) Introduction (2:03) Leadership changes post Activision's acquisition (9:39) End of hybrid work model for QA staff at Activision Blizzard (13:20) Activision Blizzard settles California discrimination lawsuit (26:02) Discussion on the settlement of harassment claims at Activision (30:11) The role of Microsoft in the settlement and its potential impact on future changes at Activision (33:12) Question: Potential for a new CEO at Activision (38:20) Closing remarks and reflections on the past year

In this episode, Richard Hoeg is joined by Tom Hoeg and Ian Runkle for a discussion on gaming highlights, Richard's recovery from a stroke, and their favorite games. They dive into "War Tales" and "Aces and Adventures," explore game concepts, and discuss Ian's experience with "Immortality." They wrap up with a VR gaming discussion and their top 10 games list. (0:00) Introduction and Welcoming Tom Hoeg (5:07) Honorable Mentions in Gaming (12:09) Richard Hoeg's Stroke Experience and Recovery (27:16) Introduction of Guest Ian Runkle and Discussion on Game Preferences (35:25) Game Opinions and Reviews: From Star Wars Jedi Survivor to Final Fantasy 16 (1:00:33) Deep Dive into "War Tales" and "Aces and Adventures" (1:08:35) Discussion on Game Concepts and Design (1:14:32) Ian's Experience with "Immortality" and Audio Cues in Games (1:20:21) Asgard's Wrath 2 and VR Gaming Discussion (1:26:19) Transition to the Top 10 Games List

In this episode, Richard Hoeg and Tom Hoeg discuss various video games including 'Against the Storm', 'Dead Island 2', 'Phantom Brigade', and more. They offer a defense for 'Cyberpunk 2077', delve into 'Baldur's Gate 3' and 'Starfield', and share their top games of the year. (0:00) Introduction; Return post-Runkle (6:30) 'Against the Storm' and 'Dead Island 2' (14:33) 'Phantom Brigade', 'Sea of Stars', and 'Diablo 4' (33:21) A Defense of 'Cyberpunk 2077' (39:50) 'Dave the Diver' (43:10) Discussion on 'Baldur's Gate 3' and 'Starfield' (55:06) 'The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom' (1:06:35) Discussion on 'Remnant 2', 'Final Fantasy 16', and 'Armored Core 6' (1:25:23) Richard Hoeg's Top Game and Tom Hoeg's Top Game (1:38:04) Conclusion, Thanks to Tom Hoeg and Appreciation for the Year in Gaming

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the Epic Games vs. Google legal battle. He provides insights on Google's control over third parties, analyzes the jury's verdict, and explains the Sherman Act and Epic's antitrust claims. The episode also covers topics like monopolization, Google's efforts to block other app stores, their 30% fee, and the impact of antitrust laws on console platforms and semi-open systems. The future of the Apple vs Epic case and Epic's role are also discussed. (0:00) Introduction and overview: Epic Games vs. Google (6:46) Insights on Google's control over third parties and the impact on the case (14:21) Detailed analysis of the jury's verdict on Google's violations (23:04) Explanation of the Sherman Act and Epic's antitrust claims (33:25) Discussion on monopolization (43:15) Google's efforts to block other app stores (51:02) Google's 30% fee (1:03:47) Impact of antitrust laws on console platforms and semi-open systems (1:10:39) Future prospects of the Apple vs Epic case (1:15:20) Discussion on the role of Epic (1:19:03) Conclusion and Legal disclaimer

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into Sony's potential takeover of Bungie - exploring terms like "earnouts" and "dissolve", and the concept of a hostile takeover. He analyzes Bungie's performance, cost cutting measures, and the impact on morale. He also discusses the Game Awards, legal implications of layoffs, regulatory bodies in tech deals, and moral considerations. (0:00) Introduction and overview (1:15) Sony's potential takeover of Bungie: background and details (7:01) Understanding business deal terms: "earnouts" (13:14) Concept of a hostile takeover and its implications on Bungie (14:53) Analysis of Bungie's performance and the impact of cost cutting measures (20:25) The role of uncertainty in company morale and its effects (27:06) Discussion on the Game Awards (31:34) Legal and economic implications of corporate layoffs (39:19) Regulatory bodies in tech deals (45:22) Episode wrap-up

In this episode, Richard Hoeg and guest speaker, Ian Runkle, delve into the legal aspects of digital ownership, focusing on PlayStation, Sony, and Warner Brothers Discovery. They discuss Sony's legal repercussions, copyright laws, intellectual property rights, and piracy. The conversation extends to the meaning of 'purchase' in digital media, the first sales doctrine, and its impact on digital content ownership. They also look at the shift to subscription models, the limitations of NFTs, and the need for a legal upgrade for digital goods. The episode concludes with a discussion on service agreements and viewer questions. (0:00) Introduction and Briefing on the episode's focus: PlayStation, Sony, Warner Brothers Discovery, and Digital Ownership (6:03) Audience reactions and Legal repercussions for Sony regarding the Sony-Discovery issue (11:26) Deep dive into copyright laws, intellectual property rights, and Sony's distribution rights (17:09) Discussion on piracy and PlayStation Network's terms of service (24:13) Examination of PlayStation Network's terms of service and the meaning of 'purchase' in digital media (31:26) Understanding the first sales doctrine and its application to digital media (47:29) The first sale doctrine and its implications on digital content ownership (54:18) The shift from ownership to subscription models and the potential dangers of digital ownership (1:03:34) The limitations of NFTs in solving digital ownership issues and the debate on piracy (1:14:00) The need for a legal upgrade for digital goods and the power imbalances in copyright rules (1:26:40) Nuances of negotiating service agreements and addressing viewer questions (1:35:36) Closing remarks and disclaimer

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the Michigan vs Ohio State game, explores Giving Tuesday and charity initiatives, and provides an overview of the channel's content. He delves into the legal obligations of publicly traded companies, specifically focusing on Disney's SEC filings, and assesses their future prospects. He also addresses listener comments, discusses brand trust, representation, diversity in media, and intellectual property ownership, and concludes with implications of Disney's "Doctor Who" distribution rights. (0:00) Introduction and episode format (1:26) Discussion on the Michigan vs Ohio State game (2:48) Giving Tuesday and charity initiatives (4:16) Overview of the channel's content and its importance (6:01) Legal obligations of publicly traded companies with a deep dive into Disney's SEC filings (14:21) Analysis of Disney's future prospects and stock trajectory (16:27) Interactions with podcast listeners and responses to their comments (24:18) Assessing Disney's efforts to rebuild brand trust and recognition (36:23) Appreciation for the support from listeners and discussion on representation and diversity in media (47:19) The portrayal of corporations in media and the need for diversity in intellectual property ownership (54:13) Implications of Disney's distribution rights to "Doctor Who" and closing remarks

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the Big Ten Conference's sportsmanship policy, with special focus on Jim Harbaugh's potential innocence in the wild stallions affair. He examines the conference's letter to the University of Michigan, the legality of stealing signs during games, and Michigan's legal accountability. Richard explores the role of the Commissioner in NCAA investigations, the importance of access to underlying material in cases, and analyzes the decision made against the university. He also delves into the breach of contract allegations by the University of Michigan, exploring the concept of good faith and fair dealing in contracts. (0:00) Introduction and Welcome by Richard Hoeg (4:00) Overview of the Big Ten Conference's sportsmanship policy and its application (14:20) Jim Harbaugh's potential innocence in the wild stallions affair and standard disciplinary actions (27:28) Analysis of the Big Ten Conference's letter to the University of Michigan (37:50) Discussion on the legality of stealing signs during games and possible implications on player safety (51:39) Discussion on Michigan's legal battle and accountability (1:00:01) Examination of the role of the Commissioner in NCAA investigations and the enforcement process (1:14:22) Discussion on the access to the underlying material and its importance in the case (1:23:22) Analyzing the justification of the decision against the university (1:43:50) Final thoughts on the interpretation of the sportsmanship policy and NCAA rules (1:57:45) The consequences of the impermissible scheme for the university's football season (2:17:43) Breach of contract allegations by the University of Michigan and the concept of good faith and fair dealing in contracts (2:34:57) Sign off and reminder of the purpose of the Virtual Legality podcast

In this episode, Richard Hoeg dives into the NCAA investigation into Michigan Football, examining allegations against staffer, Connor Stallions, and potential additional rule violations. The discussion extends to the "Wild Stallions Scandal" and NCAA bylaws. The episode also explores NCAA amendments, conduct rules, and ethical implications of exploiting loopholes, concluding with potential punishments for Michigan. (0:00) Introduction and background of the NCAA investigation into Michigan Football (7:00) Examination of the evidence and allegations against Michigan's staffer, Connor Stallions (12:12) Consideration of potential additional NCAA rule violations by Michigan (16:17) Introduction to the "Wild Stallions Scandal" and insight into the NCAA's role (20:27) Examination of NCAA bylaws and potential violations (25:37) Sponsor: Hoeg Law Business Law Firm (26:48) Revisions in the scouting rule and the NCAA amendments (30:24) General rules of conduct for individuals employed by or associated with member institutions (36:13) The ethical implications of exploiting gray area loopholes in NCAA rules (38:23) The potential punishment for the University of Michigan and its head coach (51:50) Concluding thoughts on the episode.

In this episode, Richard Hoeg examines Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, discussing its impact on cloud gaming and the gaming industry. He explores a hypothetical scenario concerning FTC and US Congress legislation, the possible exclusion of Xbox games from streaming services, and the future of Bobby Kotick. Further, he looks at Microsoft's interest in mobile gaming, the role of King, and their strategy amidst the FTC case. He also touches on Ubisoft's potential use of Linux, concluding with audience appreciation and a disclaimer about the podcast's nature. (0:00) Introduction and recap of Microsoft's acquisition of Activision (5:05) Discussion on cloud gaming and market definition (14:21) Hypothetical on FTC and US Congress passing a law affecting Microsoft and Activision (27:56) Possibility of Xbox being excluded from offering its games on streaming services (39:11) The closing of Microsoft's acquisition of Activision and its impact on the gaming industry (44:05) The future of Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision, post-acquisition (1:04:39) Microsoft's interest in mobile gaming and the role of King (1:13:16) Microsoft's strategy in handling integration amidst the pending FTC case (1:26:46) The potential use of Linux by Ubisoft (1:32:10) Gratitude for the audience's participation and interest in the Microsoft Times Activision topic (1:32:52) Closing remarks and disclaimer on the nature of the Virtual Legality podcast

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the comic book property "Fables" and its video game adaptation, before delving into the Copyright Act and its implications on Fables. He explores copyright and trademark law reforms, third-party involvement, potential lawsuits, and IP ownership in the comic book industry. Listener queries on Fables, business law, and IP law are addressed, followed by a discussion on comic book IP and branding. The episode concludes with listener feedback on the movie industry and copyright misunderstandings. (0:00) Introduction to the episode and discussion on unrelated topics (1:11) Discussion on the comic book property "Fables" and its video game adaptation (3:07) Q&A section and Sponsor acknowledgement (4:04) Deep dive into the Copyright Act and its implications on Fables (12:50) Radical reform of copyright and trademark laws and DC's violation of agreements (17:01) The legal implications of 3rd party involvement and compensation issues in Fables (22:11) A critique of copyright law and potential lawsuit with DC (25:46) Discussion on comic book industry contracts, IP ownership, and the case of Fables (28:48) Listener questions and comments on Fables, business law, and IP law (37:33) Discussion on comic book IP, branding, and companies holding onto their IP (44:08) Listener comments on the movie industry, copyright misunderstandings, and closing remarks

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the Unity game engine's business model and its impact on game developers. He analyzes Unity's new pricing plan, runtime fee, and data model for calculating installs. He also delves into the legal implications of Unity's terms of service changes and the industry's reaction to Unity's new fees. The episode closes with listener comments and legal disclaimers. (0:00) Introduction and discussion on new live format (2:05) Main topic: Unity game engine and its business model (4:23) Sponsor: Scarecrow 121 (5:28) Impact of Unity's new pricing plan and game installs fee on game developers (13:02) Shift in Unity's business model and its implications (18:08) Analysis of Unity's runtime fee and data model for calculating install numbers (25:10) Unity's terms of service changes and potential legal implications (37:01) Understanding Unity's legal standing in changing terms of service (40:36) Industry response to Unity's new fees and comparison with Epic Games (49:12) Unity's focus shift from game development to industry and its implications (1:01:10) Listener comments on the loss of trust in Unity (1:02:20) Closing remarks, support invitation, and legal disclaimers.

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the FTC vs MSABK case, with a focus on antitrust laws and relevant cases. He examines the court's burden in merger cases, the FTC's stance, and the relevance of the Brown Shoe case. The conversation continues on FTC's challenges in proving merger legality doubts, their claims of court errors, and the potential harm to consumers post-merger. The episode also covers Microsoft's response, media misinterpretations, and potential settlements with UK's CMA. (0:00) Introduction and Recap of the FTC vs MSABK case (8:03) Deep Dive into Antitrust Law and Relevant Cases (15:16) Examination of the Court's Burden in Merger Cases and FTC's Stance (18:43) Relevance of Brown Shoe Case in Establishing Antitrust Harm and Understanding Tying Contracts (24:46) Continuation on FTC's Uphill Battle in Proving Doubts about Merger's Legality (32:20) FTC's Claim on Court's Errors and Misapplications of Law (37:34) FTC's Arguments on Immediate Harm to Consumers and the Market Post-Merger (40:44) Microsoft's Response to FTC's Claims and Consequences of TRO Expiring (44:03) Media's Misinterpretation of the FTC's Appeal and Microsoft's Discussions with UK's CMA (49:20) Potential Settlement between Microsoft and CMA and Explanation of Nasdaq Indexes (52:19) Acknowledgement of Support and Closing Remarks