Are Skill-Based Real-Money Games Legal in the United States?

The real-money skill gaming sector is expanding in 2024, with popular games like skill-based solitaire, bingo, and 21 Blitz. However, legal and regulatory challenges exist in the U.S., including platform guidelines, state laws, and social media advertising. Each state has its own gambling regulations, affecting the distribution and operation of real-money skill games. Payment platforms like PayPal and Venmo also raise compliance issues.

Are Play-to-Earn Video Games Legal in the United States?

Are play-to-earn games legal? The answer depends on the specifics of the game. For many gaming developers, play-to-earn is a lucrative business model in 2023 and beyond. These games let players compete against other players (PvP) or against the the game itself (PvE) to earn rewards that have real-world value. For example, players may pay…

Do Play-To-Earn Games Sell Unregistered Securities?

Play-to-earn game developers that sell in-game currency tokens or NFTs to their players may be inadvertently selling unregistered securities. Offering unregistered securities is illegal and the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) may prosecute developers and obtain injunctions, civil penalties, and orders to refund all investor funds (disgorgement). Further, the investors themselves can sue developers (including…

Is Playing Video Games for Real Money Legal? It May Depend on the Game.

Skill-based real-money gaming is a growing industry worldwide. Previously, I wrote about the legality of playing casual games like Solitaire and bingo derivatives for real money. But what about console or PC games like FIFA ‘21, NHL ‘21, Madden ‘21, NBA2K21, and PGA2K21? Shooters like Call of Duty, CS:GO, and Fortnite? Strategy card games like…

Fun Facts About the History of the World’s Oldest Hobby: Gambling.

For a change of pace, here is some short and fun reading about everyone’s favorite hobby – gambling. Whenever I do a gambling-related legal project or research, it amazes me how much time and effort has been spent by lawmakers across the United States regulating and restricting gambling in all its forms. And, it is…