Grand Theft Auto (GTA) Video Game Addiction Lawsuit – February 2025 Update

The Grand Theft Auto Lawsuit Is An Active Lawsuit

See If You Qualify!

People are filing personal injury lawsuits alleging Grand Theft Auto led to addiction and other mental health disorders. These lawsuits accuse Rockstar Games of not properly disclosing the potential dangerous side effects of playing the video game. “Gaming disorder” was recognized in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). Individuals diagnosed with gaming disorder, anxiety, depression, or a seizure disorder are encouraged to seek legal representation to determine if they have a valid claim for damages against the maker of Grand Theft Auto. 

Grand Theft Auto Addiction Lawsuit – 2025 Updates

February 21, 2025: Risk Factors and Process of Video Game Addiction Revealed in New Study

Scientists shed new light on how children can become addicted to video games such as Grand Theft Auto and what drives the addiction process. These researchers found that children who have struggled with interacting with others in person may be more likely to fulfill this social need by playing video games—e.g., in a heist on the Grand Theft Auto platform. Reward systems and reinforcement mechanisms—like variable rewards, rankings, and limited edition events—may also draw children into the game and keep them playing longer. The study’s authors also noted the similarities between the brain changes when someone is addicted to video games, drugs, and gambling. Lawsuits against the makers of games like Grand Theft Auto allege the companies have been exploiting children and young adults by making addictive games.

February 3, 2025: Study Links Violent Video Games Like Grand Theft Auto To Aggressive Tendencies in Teens

A new study looked at how addiction to violent video games might be leading to aggressive behaviors in schools. The study, called, “Video Game Addiction and Aggression in Schools: A Study of Moroccan Adolescents’ Behavioral Patterns,” found that addiction to video games did increase the likelihood of violent behavior in teens ages 15 to 19. That correlation was stronger for kids who played violent video games, like Grand Theft Auto. Many parents and young people have filed lawsuits after their teens became addicted to video games and started experiencing a range of behavioral issues.

January 5, 2025: Grand Theft Auto Lawsuits Continue To Be Filed Nationwide

As studies confirm the large number of children and young adults potentially affected by video game addiction, more lawsuits are being filed against the makers of these products. Rockstar Games, the maker of Grand Theft Auto, has been named in many of these lawsuits. Complaints allege the company knew of the addictive nature of their products and failed to warn consumers.

November 20, 2024: 19% of Participants in Gamer Study Identified for Potential Internet Gaming Disorder

A study published in the Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in Mental Health found that 19% of 500 gamers studied were identified as potential internet gaming disorder cases. Males represented a large percentage (69%) of the gamers studied.

August 15, 2024: Study Shows 4.6% of Adolescents Suffer From Internet Gaming Disorder

A study of over 28,000 Chinese middle school students between the ages of 12 and 19 found the prevalence of internet gaming disorder to be 4.6%. Students with internet gaming disorder had poorer academic performance and longer weekly playing time.

June 5, 2024: JPML Denies Transfer of Cases to MDL

The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) has denied a request to transfer multiple cases to an MDL out of the Western District of Missouri or Eastern District of Arkansas. According to the order, the cases contained substantial differences which made centralization less favorable.

March 28, 2014: Plaintiffs Request Video Game Addiction Cases Be Consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation

A motion has been filed to consolidate at least 5 video game lawsuits into multidistrict litigation out of the Western District of Missouri or the Eastern District of Arkansas. Consolidated lawsuits into an MDL can help to streamline the pre-trial process and enable plaintiffs to more effectively share information for cases with similar questions of fact, injuries, or defendants. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) will determine whether the cases meet the criteria for consolidation.

About the Grand Theft Auto Video Game Lawsuit:

What Are the Legal Grounds in the Grand Theft Auto Addiction Lawsuit?

Lawsuits filed against Rockstar Games, the maker of Grand Theft Auto, are generally based on product liability and failure to warn claims. Complaints allege the company failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential harm associated with prolonged use of the product and targeted populations most vulnerable to video game addiction. 

Failure to Warn

Legal documents filed in courts throughout the U.S. allege that Rockstar Games failed to inform users of Grand Theft Auto’s potential to cause addiction. Plaintiffs accuse the company of knowingly designing the game with addictive features and then failing to provide adequate warnings about the potential harm associated with excessive use of the game. Lawsuits further argue that if plaintiffs had been adequately warned they would have limited their use of the product. 

Product Liability

Plaintiffs further allege that Grand Theft Auto was defectively designed and is inherently dangerous. The claim focuses on the addictive features of the game and that marketing is geared towards children and young adults, most vulnerable to mental health disorders. 

Negligence

Additional legal complaints against Rockstar Games include that the company was negligent when they failed to test Grand Theft Auto’s long-term effects and did not adequately disclose the risks of harm to consumers. It is alleged that the company withheld information about the potential addictiveness of the game and continued to market to vulnerable populations.

Is Grand Theft Auto (GTA) Addictive?

According to legal documents filed nationwide, Grand Theft Auto has features that make it addictive. Intentionally addictive features include variable reward systems and microtransactions. A June 2024 study found that over 20% of adults between the ages of 18 and 29 played video games for 6 to 10 hours per week. Another study found that players spent an average of 23 hours per week playing Grand Theft Auto V, making it one of the most addictive games on the market. 

Addictive Features of Grand Theft Auto:

• Immersive Gameplay: Daily objectives, engaging missions, and realistic elements help to keep users playing for prolonged periods of time. 
• Variable Reward Systems: Grand Theft Auto’s variable reward system helps to keep players returning and playing for longer periods of time. The reward system in the game is complex, making it challenging for players to predict how long they will need to play or what they will need to accomplish to achieve a bonus.
• Microtransactions: In-game purchases can be made with real-world money promoting overspending and longer playing times.

Prolonged or excessive gaming has been linked with negative impacts on a person’s mental and physical health including increasing a person’s risk of developing depression, anxiety, and poorer performances at work and school. Legal complaints allege that the developers of Grand Theft Auto may have worked with neuroscientists and psychologists to intentionally design the game to encourage excessive play, increasing the likelihood of addictive behavior.

Individuals or parents of minors playing Grand Theft Auto are encouraged to monitor gaming habits and limit playing time if it is interfering with personal, professional, or academic obligations.

What Makes GTA Addictive?

There are several features in Grand Theft Auto that allegedly make it more addictive than its competitors. For instance, its expansive open-world design, non-linear gameplay, multiplayer modes, and complex reward systems. Game developers reportedly worked with psychologists and neuroscientists to create addictive features, encouraging excessive play. 

Addictive game features in Grand Theft Auto:

• Imaginative, non-linear gameplay: Detailed, realistic environments, non-linear immersive gameplay, a wide variety of activities, character customization, and role-playing opportunities all help to make the game more enticing to play for long periods of time. 
• Social aspects: Grand Theft Auto also has a large social following with multiplayer modes, competitions, collaborative opportunities and other social interactions promote excessive play. 
• Variable reward and progression systems: The complex reward and progression systems including missions and accomplishments that help players achieve better weapons and other utilities help to keep users engaged. 
• Microtransactions: The ability to use real-world money for in-game purchases can help to promote compulsive behavior and cause financial strain.
• Regular Content Updates: Seasonal content updates, new missions, and regular events promoted by Rockstar Games help to maintain user interest and increase re-playability.

GTA Addiction Levels Explained

Grand Theft Auto’s in-game “Addiction Level” statistics available under a player’s stats may be considered playful commentary but highlights the addictive nature of the game and that game designers were potentially aware of these qualities.

The levels are reportedly tied to playtime with “Sober Sam” and “Wake Up Buzz” being assigned to players with minimal playtime and “Choose Life” and “Downward Spiral” being assigned to individuals with extensive accumulated playtime. It is important to note that the exact game time needed to reach each level is undocumented. 

Addiction Level Labels in Grand Theft Auto:

• Minimal Playtime:
  • “Sober Sam”
  • “First Fix”
  • “Wake Up Buzz”
• Moderate Playtime:
  • “Habit Forming”
  • “Cut With Laxative”
  • “Coming Up”
  • “Jonesing Bad”
  • “Getting a bit Twitchy”
• High Engagement:
  • “One Toke Over the Line”
  • “The Weekend Has Landed”
  • “Tweaking Hard”
  • “Casual User”
  • “Getting Sketchy”
  • “That’s Some Good Shit”
• Excessive Engagement:
  • “Fiend”
  • “Bummed In the Gob”
  • “Detox/Retox”
  • “Serious Habit”
  • “High on Your Own Supply”
  • “Buying in Bulk”
• Extreme Playtime:
  • “Straight Addict”
  • “Ready for the Old Ultra-Violence”
  • “One Foot in the Hole”
  • “Get with the Program”
  • “Downward Spiral”
  • “I Wish I Didn’t See It”
  • “Choose Life”

These addiction levels indicate the potential for gamers to use Grand Theft Auto excessively. While humorous, these labels may suggest problematic playing and suggest the game developers may have been aware of the potentially addictive nature of the game.

How Can I Find My Addiction Level in GTA V?

Unlike its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V does not include an “Addiction Level” labeling system. Players, however, are able to track their game time with in-game statistics and platform-specific tools. 

To obtain GTA V in-game statistics:

• Go to the Pause Menu
• Access the “Stats” tab
• Select “General” 
• View “Time Played”

Platform-specific tracking:

• Epic Games: Under the launcher, switch library view to “list mode” and navigate to Grand Theft Auto V to view playtime.
• PlayStation: Under your profile select “Games,” navigate to GTA V to view the total hours played. 
• Steam: Access the game library, find Grand Theft Auto V, and view the total hours played.
• Xbox: Go to “My games & apps,” navigate to GTA V, press the menu button, and select “Game Details” to see playing time. 

The removal of the “Addiction Level” labels in Grand Theft Auto V places the emphasis on users to monitor game time. While each platform makes these tools accessible, it now takes a player’s initiative to view playtime and determine if it is excessive.

Signs of Grand Theft Auto Video Game Addiction

Grand Theft Auto users and parents are encouraged to be vigilant about signs of addiction. Internet gaming disorder is often presented through behavioral problems including a preoccupation with gaming, neglecting personal or professional responsibilities, and social withdrawal. 

Signs of Grand Theft Auto addiction:

• Inability to reduce playing time despite negative consequences
• Using Grand Theft Auto as an emotional escape
• Sleep disturbances
• Eye strain
• Increased aggression
• Decline in emotional well-being
• Preoccupation with gaming
• Prioritizing gaming over other responsibilities
• Social withdrawal
• Loss of interest in other activities
• Financial strain caused by excessive in-game purchases
• Poor academic performance
• Missed days at work
• Neglect of personal hygiene
• Increased depression or anxiety
• Changes in mood and behavior

The game may also foster outside addictive habits, including seeking a pleasurable response from drugs, alcohol, or gambling.

Rockstar Games’ Response to the GTA Addiction Lawsuit

In response to lawsuits alleging Grand Theft Auto and other video games are addictive, Rockstar Games has argued that the claims should be dismissed. Asserting a First Amendment protection that the games are a form of expressive media, the game developer has filed motions to dismiss in response to these allegations. 

The company acknowledges that they have created engaging content, but argues that this does not mean the video game causes harm or increases the likelihood for addiction. In other words, the company argues that the fact that the argument game is “too entertaining” does not create a valid basis for a lawsuit.

Who Can File a GTA Addiction Lawsuit?

Individuals affected by Grand Theft Auto addiction must meet certain eligibility criteria. It is important to consult with an attorney as early in the process as possible in order to determine if you meet the requirements necessary to file a claim. 

Eligibility requirements in a Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuit:

• Age Requirement: Gamers must be 24 years of age or younger. 
• Gaming Use: Must have played Grand Theft Auto or another qualifying game for at least 3 hours per day for at least 5 weeks. Qualifying games include:
  • Call of Duty
  • Minecraft
  • Fortnite
  • Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V)
  • Roblox
• Gaming Platforms: Must have played on a qualifying platform:
  • iPhone (Apple)
  • Android (Google Play) 
  • VR Headset (Oculus)
  • PlayStation (4 or 5)
  • Xbox (360, One, or X/S)
    
• Qualifying Condition: Must have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition including depression, anxiety, gamer’s rage, seizures or epilepsy, or oppositional defiance disorder.
• Proof of Treatment: Must have received treatment for a mental or physical health condition related to video game addiction, including outpatient counseling, inpatient treatment, an individualized education plan at school, or private tutoring. 

Successful Grand Theft Auto addiction claims will also demonstrate an impact on their life. An attorney can assist in determining whether you meet the eligibility requirements necessary to file a lawsuit.

Proof Needed to File a GTA Addiction Lawsuit

Substantial documentation is needed to file a Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuit. It is strongly recommended to consult with an attorney about the evidence you may need to substantiate your claim. 

Evidence needed to file a Grand Theft Auto claim:

• Medical records
• Financial statements showing in-game purchases
• Game usage logs
• Documents showing prior attempts to seek help or reduce playing time
• Personal statements or testimony
• Expert analysis of the game’s addictive design features
• Statements from friends, family, or coworkers about your gaming
• Employment and academic records

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a GTA Lawsuit?

Recoverable damages in a Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuit include both economic and non-economic damages. In rare cases, where it can be proven that the defendant acted egregiously or intentionally, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages are awarded in cases of gross negligence and are designed to punish the defendant for their misconduct and deter similar behavior in the future. 

Recoverable economic damages in a GTA lawsuit:

• Medical expenses
• Therapy costs
• Lost wages
• Unauthorized in-game purchases
• Future treatment
• Academic support
• Attorney’s fees and costs

Recoverable non-economic damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

How to File a Grand Theft Auto Addiction Lawsuit

There are several steps to file a Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuit. The most important step is retaining a trusted attorney to help navigate the legal process. 

Steps to filing a Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuit:

1. Retain an experienced attorney: As early in the process as possible, aggrieved individuals should consult with a video game lawsuit attorney to determine the viability of their claim. The attorney will not only assess whether you meet the eligibility requirement but will also help to navigate the legal process.
2. Gather the necessary information: Before filing a lawsuit, individuals addicted to Grand Theft Auto will need to prove their damages. Damages are proven through evidence that can help strengthen their claims. Evidence necessary to gather for a claim includes medical records, financial statements, academic records, personal statements, and expert opinions.
3. File the Complaint: Once the necessary evidence has been gathered, your attorney can file the complaint in the appropriate courthouse. Prior to filing, your attorney will review your claim to ensure it is filed within the statute of limitations and meets all legal requirements.
4. Navigate the Legal Proceedings: Throughout your case, your attorney will help you navigate the legal process, including walking you through the Discovery phase, settlement negotiations, and a trial, if necessary. 

Estimated GTA Lawsuit Settlement and Payout Amounts

While Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuits are still in their early stages, estimated payouts are expected to range between $100,000 to $300,000 with some cases potentially exceeding $300,000 due to the extent of the damages. It is essential to consult with an attorney to get a case-specific estimate of the potential value of your case.

Deadlines to File a Grand Theft Auto Addiction Lawsuit

The statute of limitations in Grand Theft Auto addiction lawsuits is state-specific and may vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case. It is imperative to act quickly given the complexity of these legal deadlines. 

Individuals affected by Grand Theft Auto addiction are encouraged to seek legal counsel to understand deadlines that may be applicable to their case and the potential consequences of failing to file within any specified statute of limitation.

Why Choose King Law to Handle Your Video Game Addiction Case

King Law has extensive experience representing clients in video game addiction lawsuits. The legal team is well-versed in Grand Theft Auto cases and will help to ensure affected individuals receive the maximum recovery allowed based on the circumstances of their case. 

Experience the Difference at King Law: 

• 24/7 access to legal counsel
• Unparalleled experience 
• An internal intake team to answer questions about the lawsuit
• Personalized service and attention to each case
• All cases are meticulously prepared and strategically planned
• Nationwide representation
• No legal fees unless the client wins

Contact a Grand Theft Auto Addiction Lawyer

Individuals affected by Grand Theft Auto addiction are encouraged to seek legal counsel as soon as possible to determine if they have a valid claim for damages. The experienced attorneys at King Law can help provide personalized advice about the case including assessing the viability of a lawsuit. It is important to act quickly as potential plaintiffs may only have a limited amount of time to file a claim.

Affected individuals are encouraged to contact King Law at (585) 496-2648 to schedule an initial consultation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)