Consumers allege the “Madden NFL” game, published by Electronic Arts (NASD: ERTS), is a monopoly franchise prohibiting other companies from offering pro football video games.
According to the antitrust suit, EA has a stranglehold on pro football video games because EA is the exclusive rightsholder to use NFL team logos and players’ names and likenesses. A court recently held plaintiffs had adequately alleged no substitutes for interactive football software exist.
The antitrust allegations also highlight the fact rival Take-Two Interactive discontinued its “NFL 2K” game franchise after EA entered into its monopolistic NFL deal. The consumers allege NFL 2K had led to more competitive pricing in pro football computer games.
For more information, to learn about your rights, or to participate in this class action, please call 1-619-573-1700.