In 2003, High 5 Games and IGT entered into an agreement that would see the two games developers create innovative pokies together. Twelve years later, the companies are entering into a legal battle over unpaid royalties. For over a decade, IGT and High 5 enjoyed a successful business relationship. In 2008, the two parties extended their agreement but it was disbanded in 2011.

Now, years after the two companies stopped working together, High 5 has filed a lawsuit against its former partner. While High 5 has not offered much information on the lawsuit, it appears that IGT has failed to pay royalties on gaming features that have been used in over 80 titles. This means that IGT has used features that were developed by High 5 Games without paying the company for them.

According to the Las Vegas Review Journal, a statement from the suit reads: “IGT has also failed to make certain payments owed under the now-terminated agreement, has failed to cease distribution of certain unauthorised, modified games, and has failed to abandon, cancel, or assign to (High 5 Games) certain trademark filings”. The suit comes shortly after IGT acquired GTECH, which occurred last month.

It is unlikely that High 5’s filing is due to this acquisition, it is certainly interesting timing. At the moment, neither of the parties have commented on the lawsuit. They seem to be keeping quiet, but we imagine that more details will be revealed shortly. This is likely to be a long-standing legal issue. There is much more information to be revealed, as well as news once the case goes to trial or settlement talks begin.

We will certainly keep you posted as this story develops.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.