The Destiny lawsuit covers multiple legal cases connected to the popular video game franchise Destiny, developed by Bungie, as well as the personal legal issues of public streamer known as Destiny (Steven Kenneth Bonnell II). These diverse lawsuits include copyright infringement claims against Bungie for alleged plagiarism in Destiny 2’s content, legal actions against cheating software developers, and civil lawsuits against the streamer Destiny for unauthorized sharing of intimate content. This article examines the background, allegations, legal claims, and current status of these key litigation matters.
Background of the Destiny Lawsuit
Bungie, the developer behind Destiny and Destiny 2, has been involved in several lawsuits focusing on copyright infringement and cheating software. In 2023, writer Matthew Kelsey Martineau accused Bungie of plagiarizing elements of his original science fiction story in Destiny 2’s “Red War” campaign and expansions. Bungie’s attempt to dismiss the case was denied by a federal judge in 2025 due to the removal of original campaign content from the game, complicating evidentiary matters.
Bungie also has initiated and won lawsuits against cheat software companies like AimJunkies and Lavicheats, successfully stopping unauthorized software that harms fair gameplay through copyright and anti-circumvention claims.
Separately, streamer Steven K. Bonnell II (“Destiny”) faces a civil lawsuit filed in Florida for intentionally sharing a private sexual video without consent, leading to extreme distress for the plaintiff, known as “Pxie.” This case alleges violations of intimate image protection and cyber harassment laws.
Parties Involved
- Bungie: Video game developer and plaintiff in several copyright infringement and anti-cheating lawsuits.
- Matthew Kelsey Martineau: Plaintiff accusing Bungie of plagiarism related to Destiny 2’s storyline.
- Cheat Software Developers: Defendants in lawsuits filed by Bungie for selling cheat programs.
- Steven K. Bonnell II (“Destiny”): Defendant in a civil lawsuit for unauthorized dissemination of intimate videos.
- Pxie: Plaintiff in the lawsuit against the streamer Destiny alleging revenge porn and harassment.
Details of the Destiny Lawsuit Allegations or Claims
Copyright Infringement Allegations Against Bungie
Matthew Kelsey Martineau alleges that Destiny 2’s Red War campaign copied major elements of his unpublished sci-fi work published online years earlier. Bungie’s defense is complicated by the removal of original game content due to a content vaulting strategy.
Legal Actions Against Cheat Software Sellers
Bungie accuses cheat software companies of violating copyrights by creating and distributing unauthorized hacks, aimbots, and cheats designed to circumvent Destiny 2’s security measures. These software hacks degrade fair play and violate terms of service.
Civil Lawsuit Against Streamer Destiny
The Florida lawsuit alleges that streamer Steven Bonnell II intentionally shared private sexual videos without consent, violating the Intimate Image Protection Act and related privacy laws. The plaintiff claims significant emotional distress due to public dissemination and resulting harassment. Destiny has acknowledged sharing the video but disputes allegations regarding the intent and consequences.
Legal Claims and Relevant Laws Involved in the Lawsuit
- Copyright Claims: Under 17 U.S.C. § 501 for infringement of original literary works.
- Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): Anti-circumvention provisions against cheat software circumvention tools.
- Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA): For unauthorized software interfering with game operations.
- Intimate Image Protection Act and Cyber Harassment Laws: Regarding non-consensual distribution of private sexual content.
- Consumer Protection and Contract Law: Related to terms of service enforcement and unfair competition claims.
Current Status and Recent Developments in the Lawsuit
In 2025, a federal judge denied Bungie’s motion to dismiss the plagiarism lawsuit, allowing discovery and trial preparation. Bungie secured wins against cheat software providers, including a $4.3 million damages award against AimJunkies and a $6.7 million judgment against Lavicheats.
The civil lawsuit against the streamer Destiny remains active in Florida courts, with ongoing proceedings about damages, evidence destruction allegations, and public statements by both parties. The case has attracted significant public attention and polarized discussions online.
Health, Financial, Social, or Industry Impacts of the Lawsuit
Bungie’s legal battles underscore the challenges developers face protecting intellectual property in live-service video games where content evolves and adapts. Successful enforcement against cheating software enhances integrity for players and the gaming community.
The civil lawsuit against Destiny highlights privacy and reputational risks public figures face in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of consent and ethical responsibility in sharing private content.
Consumer Advice and Business Consequences Related to the Lawsuit
Players and consumers are advised to respect intellectual property rights and avoid using unauthorized software that disrupts fair gameplay. For content creators and streamers, understanding legal boundaries surrounding privacy, consent, and public disclosures remains critical to avoid litigation and reputational harm.
Businesses should maintain comprehensive records, implement strong security measures, and proactively manage intellectual property and privacy risks to minimize legal exposures.
Conclusion Summarizing the Significance and Future Outlook of the Destiny Lawsuit
The Destiny lawsuits collectively highlight evolving legal challenges in interactive digital media, ranging from copyright protection in dynamic content to safeguarding personal privacy. Bungie’s proactive legal actions demonstrate commitment to intellectual property enforcement and fair play, while the streamer Destiny’s case underscores the importance of privacy and consent in the digital era.
Future outcomes of these lawsuits may shape industry standards on content creation, anti-cheating technology, and digital privacy rights, balancing innovation with accountability in gaming and online communities.
