One of the most significant legal disputes in the recent history of the iGaming sector has officially concluded. Aristocrat Leisure and Light & Wonder have agreed to settle their ongoing litigation in the United States and Australia, with the former agreeing to pay $127.5 million.
The conflict centered on claims that Light & Wonder utilized protected intellectual property to develop its Dragon Train and Jewel of the Dragon titles.
Details of the Financial Settlement
Under the terms of the agreement, Light & Wonder will pay Aristocrat a sum of $127.5 million. This payment addresses claims of misappropriation and infringement regarding Aristocrat’s math models and trade secrets. In addition to the financial compensation, Light & Wonder has agreed to permanently cease the commercialisation of the disputed games globally.
The supplier also committed to removing existing installations and destroying all documents that contain the proprietary information in question.
Future Compliance and Executive Responses
Both companies have established confidential protocols to identify and resolve any future concerns regarding math models in specific hold and spin games. This settlement allows both major suppliers to move forward without the uncertainty of a prolonged court battle.
Matt Wilson, CEO of Light & Wonder, addressed the situation by emphasizing the company’s commitment to integrity.
“Light & Wonder is pleased to resolve this matter and move forward. We are firmly committed to doing business the right way while respecting our competitors’ intellectual property rights and protecting our own rights,” Wilson stated. “This matter arose when a former employee inappropriately used certain Aristocrat math without our knowledge and in direct violation of our policies.”
Aristocrat Defends Innovation Strategy
Aristocrat CEO Trevor Croker welcomed the outcome as a validation of their defensive strategy regarding innovation.
“Aristocrat welcomes fair competition but will always robustly defend and enforce its intellectual property rights,” Croker said. “We welcome this positive outcome which includes significant financial compensation and follows the decisive action we took to ensure the preservation of Aristocrat’s valuable intellectual property assets.”
With the dismissal of all claims in both jurisdictions, the industry now watches how Light & Wonder will pivot its development strategy to replace the revenue potential of the now canceled titles.
