The UK's Performing Right Society (PRS) has initiated a lawsuit against Steam, alleging that Valve's platform is playing host to games that use music for which Steam does not have the rights.
As reported by Gamesindustry.biz, PRS claims that Valve "never obtained a license for its use of the rights managed by PRS on behalf of its members", suggesting that the platform has many games on it which use PRS members' music without their permission.
PRS for Music CCO Dan Gopal says that PRS "exists to protect the value of [its members'] work with integrity, transparency, and fairness", and that the songwriters and creatives behind video game soundtracks "deserve to have their contributions recognized and fairly valued".
Specifically, PRS' claim pertains to "game titles which incorporate PRS members' musical works", like Forza Horizon and Grand Theft Auto, as well as other games with licensed soundtracks rather than original compositions (although the aforementioned games do feature those as well).
According to PRS, it's been looking to license its works with Valve "for many years", but Valve hasn't shown "appropriate engagement". PRS says its lawsuit will proceed unless Valve "engages positively with discussions" and obtains the necessary license to cover PRS members'...
