Cryptologic Files Dispute with Marvel Comics

Submitted by Gary on Tue, 2010-04-20 at 20:02

The Marvel Superhero slots that have recently been released at Cryptologic-powered online casinos have become some of the most popular games to ever hit the online gambling scene. The relationship between Marvel and Cryptologic was seemingly successful, but the software designer has just announced that a legal dispute is now taking place with the comic book company.

According to a press release issued by Crypotologic’s subsidiary WagerLogic Ltd, Marvel has committed material breaches of certain provisions of its agreement with the designer. The company has tried to come to an agreement outside of court, but they have been left with no choice but to undergo the arbitration process.

No concrete reasons have been cited as the cause of the disagreement, although industry onlookers are speculating. It is believed that Cryptologic is not pleased with Marvel’s subsequent partnership with PlayTech.

Cryptologic signed its licensing deal with Marvel in 2005, granting the online gambling developer sole rights to the depiction of the superheroes in the online casino realm. By 2008, almost 20 games were produced as a result of the partnership, but one year later Marvel signed a very similar deal with PlayTech.

If Cryptologic was, in fact, granted sole rights, Marvel has certainly breached their contract. However, it is now up to the courts to decide. Hopefully, they can come to an amicable solution, so that we will be able to see new Marvel-themed slots in the future.