Skillz Secures $42.9 Million in Patent Infringement Case Against AviaGames

In a significant legal victory, Skillz has been awarded $42.9 million in a patent infringement lawsuit against AviaGames. The lawsuit, filed by Skillz, alleged that AviaGames had copied its patented skills-based gaming platform and games. Both companies operate in the competitive space of online multiplayer games, where players can stake real money on match outcomes against other players. Following the verdict, Skillz's general counsel, Andrew Dahlinghaus, expressed satisfaction, stating that the ruling promotes fairness in the industry and constitutes willful infringement by AviaGames. During the trial, Skillz presented evidence, including internal AviaGames communications, that highlighted the rival company's plans to replicate Skillz's platform, known as Pocket7Games. Furthermore, allegations have surfaced regarding AviaGames' use of unbeatable bots instead of human players, prompting a federal investigation and a class-action lawsuit from players accusing the company of fraudulent activities and racketeering. Evidence presented in court showed AviaGames discussing the use of bots in coded language within their internal communications.