26 April 2024
MGI AT GAMES INDUSTRY LAW SUMMIT "ON TOUR" - LIMASSOL
April finally saw MGI’s name up in lights (or at least a giant hanging banner!) as we proudly sponsored the Games Industry Law Summit “On Tour”. If you’re not already in the know, the “On Tour” event (now in its second year), was held between 17th and 19th April in Limassol, Cyprus. The event brings together legal experts from all over the world to discuss the latest legal issues affecting the video games industry. Organised by the wonderful Alma Giedraitienė and Sergei Kilmov, it is the prelude and ‘little sister’ to the Games Industry Law Summit, held each year in Vilnius – more details at the end of the page.
Hospitality
Having recently taken over as Chair of MGI, this was my first external conference, and it did not disappoint! From the moment we arrived at the stunning venue we felt at home - greeted by the late afternoon sun and a cold beer, we had the chance to unwind and connect with peers from around the world. At the end of the first day, we had an exquisite, Cypriot dinner where conversations and connections continued to form, leaving us energised for the following day’s agenda…and the 7am running club!
The Biggest Legal & Policy Challenge: Consumer Protection
Throughout the event, numerous panels delved into various aspects of video game law providing insightful presentations and discussions. A notable mention goes to Day One’s opening session, ‘Privacy XC 2024’ dedicated to global privacy concerns, which shed light on the intricate web of regulations that businesses must navigate.
However, my standout session was on Day One: ‘Protection of Minors XC 2024’. Expertly moderated by Wiggin’s Isabel Davies, with one of their Partners, Peter Lewin and also Emma Smizer of Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz, Claas Oehley of IDHE Partner, Dr Jan-Peter Ewert of the Valve Corporation, and Tracey Tang of AnJie Broad. This session not only offered a comprehensive global overview on the subject, but also underscored the paramount importance of consumer protection; especially concerning the online safety of young people, currently the most pressing legal and public policy concern confronting the video games sector.
Day Two highlights included informative sessions covering advertising, as well as the intriguing intersection of celebrities with video game content.
My Key Take Aways:
Embracing Responsible Innovation
Over the course of the two-day conference, the video games industry thoroughly explored the myriad of legal hurdles it faces. A resounding consensus emerged: responsible innovation is the path forward. Legal and policy considerations must not be treated as an afterthought but rather as integral components driving innovation.
Navigating the ‘Patchwork’ Paradigm
A prevalent theme throughout the conference was the concept of a ‘patchwork’ regulatory landscape. Whether grappling with issues of privacy, advertising, or consumer protection, international businesses confront a maze of divergent and ever-evolving laws worldwide. Staying informed and adaptable to these nuances is imperative for industry players.
Advocating for Industry Self-Regulation
Though not the focal point of discussion, there exists a clear imperative for the industry to bolster self-regulation efforts. Establishing robust industry standards can help mitigate key challenges. The complexity of regulatory frameworks also underscores the necessity for a unified global approach, a task unlikely to be achieved solely by policymakers.
More About Games Industry Law
An official overview of the event can be found here on Games Industry Law’s newsletter page and you can find them here on LinkedIn.
As I mentioned at the top of this article, there is also the primary event – the Games Law Industry Summit! This year, it will reconvene in Vilnius, Lithuania, between 3rd and 5th September 2024 and MGI will be there once again sponsoring and attending, so if you’re deliberating over registering your ticket and booking those flights, I hope that this article will have whet your appetite enough to convince you! And if you are attending, reach out to me beforehand to connect...only four months to go!
Nick Stringer, MGI Chair