Light & Wonder (L&W) CEO and president Matt Wilson has addressed the ongoing dispute with Aristocrat Technologies regarding the Dragon Train game. He confirmed that a new version of the game is currently in development and acknowledged that the original game’s designer has left the company.
Last month, the District Court of Nevada ordered Light & Wonder to cease distribution of Dragon Train following a legal challenge from Aristocrat. The Australian company filed the infringement case in February, alleging that Dragon Train misappropriated its intellectual property, specifically citing similarities to its Dragon Link series, as well as accusations of copied game mechanics and copyright infringement. Concerns were also raised about the involvement of former Aristocrat executives now employed by Light & Wonder during the development of Dragon Train.
Light & Wonder launched Dragon Train in the US in March 2024, whereas Aristocrat’s Dragon Link series has been available since around 2017.
Working to Comply with Court Order
In a video statement addressing investors, Wilson confirmed that Light & Wonder is actively developing a new version—Dragon Train 2.0—that will comply fully with the court’s order. Although no specific timeline for the relaunch was provided, Wilson emphasized that the updated game will remain an important part of Light & Wonder’s portfolio for years to come.
He clarified that the required changes would be limited, as the court’s injunction pertains only to a small part of the game’s map. Other key elements such as the art, sound, animation, and branding are unaffected by the ruling.
Removing Existing Dragon Train Units
Wilson also confirmed that Light & Wonder has communicated with customers in North America and Australia about removing the current version of Dragon Train from their machines. With approximately 33,000 units installed in North America, Dragon Train accounted for roughly 2,200 units (a mid-single digit percentage). The company is working diligently with operators to replace these games in accordance with the court’s directive.
Despite the injunction, Wilson noted that client relationships remain strong, with no requests to remove other Light & Wonder games.
In Australia, where Dragon Train has been “hugely successful,” the game is no longer available. Wilson expressed confidence that new game releases will fill the sales pipeline and support growth in Q4 and beyond.
Light & Wonder remains committed to complying with the court order and achieving its long-term targets, including a 2025 consolidated adjusted EBITDA goal of $1.40 billion (£1.06 billion/€1.27 billion).
Designer Departure Confirmed
Addressing reports about the departure of Dragon Train’s designer, Wilson confirmed that the individual—formerly an Aristocrat employee—was terminated earlier this week but declined to comment on personal details.
Looking Ahead
Wilson closed his statement with optimism, describing the situation as an isolated incident that is being effectively managed.
“The team is energized and focused on maintaining the momentum we have built over the past five years,” he said.
