Avatar Wars Heat Up: No Doubt Suing Activision

The dust has barely settled on the Nirvana/Courtney Love feud with Guitar Hero, and already another band of '90s icons has prepped a similar complaint. The remaining members of Nirvana were unhappy that their singer's avatar in Guitar Hero could be unlocked so he could sing some distinctly un-Cobain like material, including Bon Jovi songs. Now, the members of No Doubt have dumped a hefty lawsuit on Activision's doorstep after they used their likeness in the Band Hero game.



Apparently, No Doubt did sign off on an agreement that allowed characters based on them to be used on the game, but they weren't aware of the depth of Band Hero's intentions. It has “transformed No Doubt band members into a virtual karaoke circus act,” according to a statement from the group, who are unhappy that it features them singing songs they have never performed or written.

A memorable passage in the No Doubt court statements reads as follows: "While No Doubt are avid fans of the Rolling Stones and even have performed in concerts with the Rolling Stones, the Character Manipulation Feature results in an unauthorised performance by the Gwen Stefani avatar in a male voice choir boasting about having sex with prostitutes. Activision has deceived and confused the public into believing that No Doubt authorized the use of its name and likeness for the Character Manipulation Feature of Band Hero and that No Doubt approves and endorses the appearance of its members individually performing songs that are wholly inappropriate and out of character for No Doubt."



Ouch. Activision has hit back at these claims, and clearly has little intention of changing Band Hero in the future. A statement from them reads: “Activision believes it is within its legal rights with respect to the use and portrayal of the band members in the game and that this lawsuit is without merit.” No Doubt are trying to prevent the game from being distributed in their lawsuit, and are seeking damages against Activision. This one is likely to rumble on for some time, and it will be fascinating to see who else, if anyone, dares to go up against other gaming giants as similar issues arise.

Source: LA Times