Richard Hoeg

Virtual Legality

Leisure EN ↓ 792 episodes

Virtual Legality is a continuing series discussing the law, video games, software, and everything digital, hosted by Richard Hoeg, of the Hoeg Law Business Law Firm (Hoeg Law).

Author

Richard Hoeg

Category

Leisure

Podcast website

vl.hoeglaw.com

Latest episode

Aug 20, 2025

Where to listen?

Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soon

Podcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts

Get it on Google Play Install for free Android 5M+ downloads · 4.8 rating iOS soon

Episodes

X-MAS PARTY | Microsoft and Activision Answer the FTC (VL757 LIVE) 23.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses Microsoft's attempt to be the "nice guy" in response to the New York Times, their reaction to the FTC, and contrasts it with Activision's own response. He wraps up with final thoughts and holiday wishes.

Microsoft x Activision | Lawyer Reads "Gamers" Lawsuit (plus CMA Comments!) (VL756 - LIVE) 21.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg provides an introduction, discusses a recent lawsuit involving gamers, and summarizes public comments received by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

No, the FTC Didn't "LIE" | But Neither Did Microsoft (VL755) 12.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg, the host of Virtual Legality, provides an introduction to the series. Special thanks to FalkusVipus for their contribution.

The FTC vs Microsoft/Activision | A Lawyer Reads the Lawsuit (VL754 - LIVE) 09.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg sets the stage for a deep dive into the intersection of law, video games, and digital matters. He provides a comprehensive introduction to the complex world of Virtual Legality.

FTC MOVES TO BLOCK MICROSOFT x ACTIVISION!!! | LAWSUIT PARTY LIVE (VL753) 08.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the FTC's vote on Microsoft's potential Activision deal, examining possible outcomes and the implications of FTC not seeking a preliminary injunction. He also explores the significance of consent decrees post-deal and Microsoft's strategies to appease regulators.

Xbox Signs 10-Year Call of Duty Deal...with Nintendo | A Legal Look (VL752) 07.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses Microsoft's latest announcement, Nintendo's unique position in the market, and Phil Spencer's interview with the Washington Post. He also analyzes an article from The New York Times and talks about Steam's new policies.

XBOX/ACTIVISION PR BLITZ | Microsoft Looks to Put Pressure on FTC (VL751) 06.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the current state of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), discusses Microsoft's recent conversation with the Wall Street Journal, and wraps up with a thoughtful conclusion.

COUP AT THE FTC? | Xbox, Activision, and a Speculative NY Post (VL750) 05.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses Microsoft's readiness to fight legal battles, the FTC's current state of play, and issues within the FTC. He also revisits the Bloomberg report and concludes with a discussion on the Communications Workers of America.

Smash World Tour Cancelled by Nintendo? | A Legal Look (VL749) 01.12.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the recent statements from Smash World Tour, the alleged "assurances" given by Nintendo, and explores some of the legal possibilities surrounding these developments.

Can Xbox Flip the EU on Activision? | What of Sony and PlayStation? (VL748) 29.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the history of flipping in the digital realm, culminating in a detailed discussion about an attempt at the biggest flip yet, concluding with insightful remarks.

Will the FTC Actually SUE to Block Microsoft x Activision? | A Legal Look (VL747) 28.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg starts with an introduction, setting the stage for a deeper dive into the intersection of law and the digital world.

Sony to CMA: Activision MUST Remain Independent | A Legal Look (VL746 - LIVE) 23.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg explores three potential theories of harm in the digital world, focusing on the console market, subscription services, and cloud gaming. The discussion concludes with a Q+A session.

Blizzard Opts Out of China...For Now | Microsoft, Blitzchung and More (VL745) 22.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg thanks supporters before delving into the recent Activision press release. He provides an in-depth analysis of the legal implications, concluding with his expert insights.

10 YEARS?! | Microsoft Bids to End Call of Duty Madness w/ Sony (VL744) 21.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses a recent New York Times article on video game laws, reflects on a decade in the industry, and ponders potential FTC litigation. He wraps up with final thoughts.

Is Twitter *REALLY* Doomed? | Elon Musk's Hardcore Ultimatum (VL743) 18.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses a given ultimatum and its subsequent rejection in the digital world. He ponders on whether this could signify an end, and explores the complex issue of freedom of speech in a virtual context.

Bethesda Fires Back at Mick Gordon! | Doom Messaging Gets Worse (VL742) 16.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg dissects and analyzes various statements from Stratton, Gordon, and Bethesda. He concludes with his professional insights on the implications of these statements in the digital and gaming law context.

BIAS?! | "The Commission is Working to Ensure"...that Microsoft Loses (VL741) 14.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses a controversial tweet, the importance of optics in legal situations, aspects of Mueller's report, and the concept of a 'spokesproblem'. The episode concludes with final thoughts and analysis.

Doom Eternal Composer Fights Back! | A Legal Look at the Soundtrack Saga (VL740) 10.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the Stratton Letter from 2020 and the recent Gordon Response in 2022. He explores the importance of contracts, the concepts of reconciliation and betrayal, and provides a detailed recitation of facts before concluding.

Xbox, Activision, and the EU Phase 2 Review | A Legal Look (VL739 LIVE) 08.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the European Union's Phase 2 Reasoning, examining its implications on the digital world. He also discusses a significant quote from the EU and answers listener's questions before wrapping up the discussion.

TELLING STORIES | Is Microsoft x Activision Blizzard Set to "Fall Apart"? (VL738) 07.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg delves into the complexities of information spread in the digital world, the role of insiders and analysts, and the legalities surrounding mergers and penalties in the video game industry.

DON'T WATCH THIS! | Xbox, Activision, and EU Phase 2 Escalation (VL737) 03.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the European Union's escalating involvement in digital law, PC Gamer's recent controversy, and the implications of 'Phase II' in the digital world.

PSVR2 DEAD ON ARRIVAL? | Sony Announces Pricing and "Support" (VL736) 02.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses the issues related to pricing and game library in the digital world. He further explores various rationalizations and concludes the discussion with potential solutions.

IS THIS FRAUD? | False Advertising and Vampire: The Masquerade Swansong (VL735) 01.11.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg analyzes the legality of certain upgrade claims in the gaming industry. He explores if these can be considered fraud and discusses the role of the FTC in regulating such practices.

PAY CHECKS | Elon Musk and Twitter | Leaky Employees, Fake News, and Dirty Details (VL734) 31.10.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter, examining the merger agreement, financial aspects, and management changes. He explores Twitter's new verification and monetization plans, legal issues under Musk's leadership, and reactions from employees. The episode also addresses free speech, political beliefs, access to company data, and compliance with the EU's Digita...

ELON MUSK OWNS TWITTER | Demands, Robber Barons, and Mass Hysteria (VL733) 28.10.2022

In this episode, Richard Hoeg discusses a recent buyout, addresses advertisers, explores mass hysteria's impact on digital industries, examines policy reversals and management firings, looks into employee demands, and contemplates the emergence of a new Robber Baron.

Listen to the Virtual Legality podcast in Replaio

Radio and podcasts in one app - free, with no sign-up. Install today and do not miss the launch

Get it on Google Play

Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.