Why the Publisher of Rune II Just Sued A Defunct Studio (and why Bethesda could Be next) (VL145)

While it was odd when developer Human Head "went under" only a day after releasing Rune II on the Epic Games Store, the story got even odder when Bethesda announced that it was hiring all of Human Head to form a new studio, Roundhouse Studios.

With Roundhouse being comprises of exactly the same employees, officers, and management working at the exact same location, it was no surprise when Human Head's former publishing partner on Rune II, Ragnarok Game, got a bit upset at the lack of support the game was now set to receive.

Of course, getting a bit upset, is probably understatement for describing a lawsuit.

Let's dive in, discuss the differences between asset purchases and equity purchases, explain successor liability, and also consider what, if anything, Bethesda has to fear from such action.

We're no mere continuation...in Virtual Legality.

#Lawsuit #RuneII #Bethesda

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Discussed in this episode:

"Rune II publisher sues Human Head Studios over 'withheld assets'"
GameDailyBiz - December 5, 2019 - Johnny Cullen


"Rune 2 developer Human Head being sued by publisher for abandoning game"
Eurogamer - December 5, 2019 - Matt Wales


"12/4/2019 – Complaint Filed for RUNE II Assets"
Blog Post - Ragnarok Game


Ragnarok Game, LLC v Nine Realms, Inc. et al
Legal Complaint


Sample Asset Purchase Agreement
Social Reality and Halyard MD Opco


"California Successor Liability"
Gehres Law Group Blog Post


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"Virtual Legality" is a continuing series discussing the law, video games, software, and everything digital, hosted by Richard Hoeg, of the Hoeg Law Business Law Firm (Hoeg Law).

Rick has practiced for more than a decade at some of the country's largest law firms, representing IT, software, video game, and other technology companies, as well as the individuals and institutions which fund them.

DISCUSSION IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE. INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED IN THE LEGAL TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS VIDEO SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR OWN COUNSEL.

Any and all feedback is appreciated. Let us know what you think!

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