Talking to a Real Video Game Addict w/ Darren Carter & Katherine Blanford | Hardly Legal

Are video games intentionally designed to be addictive and can game companies be sued for it?

In this episode of Hardly Legal, attorneys Joshua Stramiello and Bill Richmond are joined by comedians Darren Carter and Katherine Blanford for a wild but thoughtful conversation about video game addiction, microtransactions, and lawsuits against tech companies.

A caller opens up about spending 12 to 16 hours a day gaming, thousands of dollars on in game purchases, and the serious impact it has had on his marriage, health, and daily life. From there, the episode dives into the legal gray area around addictive design, comparing video games to tobacco, gambling, and social media.

Topics covered include

How game developers use behavioral science to increase engagement

When addiction can become a product liability issue

Whether adults or parents can sue video game companies

Where personal responsibility ends and corporate responsibility begins

Funny, uncomfortable, and surprisingly deep, this episode shows why the law is just starting to catch up with modern tech.

⚖️ This show is for education and entertainment only. Not legal advice.

⏱ YouTube Chapters

Meet This Episode's Guest 👉 Darren Carter

✅ YouTube: @darrencarter

Meet This Episode's Guest 👉Katherine Blanford

✅ YouTube: @itskatherineblanford

🌐 Check us out at

📞 Want to be a caller on the show? Fill out this form

Connect with our Hosts:

Bill Richmond: @kimjongbill

Joshua Stramiello: @stramshow