Video Games & Esports
Regions
Industry Expertise
The video games and esports sector is one of the fastest-growing segments of the global entertainment industry, driven by technological innovation, digital content distribution, virtual economies, competitive gaming and significant international investment. WH Partners is positioned at the forefront of these developments, advising clients who are shaping the industry.
Our team acts for stakeholders across the entire video games and esports ecosystem, including game producers, esports teams, professional players and content creators. We advise on commercial agreements, intellectual property rights, software licensing, digital content, sponsorship and endorsement arrangements, player contracts, tournament participation terms and emerging technologies. Whether representing an esports player in contract negotiations or advising a game studio on a publishing deal, we bring sector-specific insight to every engagement.
We also advise on legal issues arising from innovative products and business models, including virtual assets, NFTs, in-game monetisation features and play-to-earn mechanics. We advise on video game mechanics intersecting with gaming and gambling regulation, such as loot boxes, gacha systems and similar features. We draw on our established gaming regulatory practice to provide authoritative guidance. In addition, we assist clients with dispute resolution, regulatory investigations and enforcement matters affecting the sector.
Why WH Partners
Industry Understanding
We have a thorough understanding of the legal and commercial realities facing video game producers, esports organisations and professional players. Our experience spans game development and publishing, esports team operations, player transfers, image rights and contracts, sponsorship structures, tournament frameworks and digital business models.
Technology & Intellectual Property Expertise
Our lawyers advise on software development and distribution agreements, digital content rights, intellectual property protection and enforcement, licensing arrangements and the technologies that underpin the sector — from game engines to streaming platforms.
Experience with Emerging Technologies
We help clients navigate and capitalise on the legal implications of virtual assets, NFTs, blockchain-based gaming, evolving monetisation models and other innovative digital products, ensuring they remain ahead of regulatory developments.
Commercially Focused Advice
We provide strategic, commercially focused legal counsel designed to support innovation, protect our clients’ competitive position and deliver long-term commercial success in a rapidly evolving industry.
Recognised Expertise
- Proven track record advising and representing leading technology, digital content, interactive entertainment and esports businesses.
- Deep understanding of intellectual property, software licensing, player and team representation and emerging technologies.
- Strategic, commercially driven advice tailored to the unique demands of the video games and esports industry.
