Evolution Accused of Patent Infringement Over Lightning Game Technology
Taiwan-based company Jumbo Technology has filed a lawsuit against gaming provider Evolution in a U.S. court, alleging infringement of a 2017 U.S. patent.
Allegation: Infringement of Patented Dynamic Multiplier Technology
The complaint was filed on May 29 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware. Jumbo Technology claims that Evolution’s Lightning series of games unlawfully uses a patented system for dynamically increasing payout multipliers.
The patent in question — U.S. Patent No. 9,646,459, granted in 2017 — describes a technology for introducing randomized multipliers in games like roulette, baccarat, and dice.
According to the complaint, the technology:
- boosts player engagement;
- encourages longer play sessions;
- enhances enjoyment through unpredictability;
- maintains operator profitability.
Which Evolution Games Are Under Fire
Jumbo asserts that the patented system is being used in the following popular titles:
- Lightning Roulette
- Lightning Baccarat
- Lightning Dice
- Red Door Roulette
Each of these games features a random multiplier mechanic that increases potential payouts while preserving the house edge.
Pre-Lawsuit Negotiation Attempt
In June 2024, Jumbo Technology first alerted Evolution to the potential patent infringement and offered a license agreement on fair and reasonable terms. However, Evolution declined to negotiate and continued using the disputed technology.
The lawsuit alleges that Evolution’s actions:
- were taken knowingly and willfully;
- demonstrate deliberate disregard for the patent;
- continued even after direct notice;
- occurred in multiple U.S. states, including Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, and West Virginia.
What Jumbo Technology Is Demanding
The company is seeking:
- compensation for willful patent infringement;
- enhanced damages due to the intentional nature of the violation;
- reimbursement of legal fees and court costs;
- a formal recognition that Evolution infringed the patent;
- an injunction preventing further use of the technology without a license.
Examples of Alleged Infringement Cited in the Lawsuit
| Game | Standard Payout | Enhanced Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Roulette | 35:1 | Up to 42:1 |
| Baccarat | Standard payouts | Multipliers applied to specific bets |
| Sic Bo | Varies by bet | Random multipliers with house edge preserved |
Promotion of Disputed Games and Indirect Infringement
Jumbo also accuses Evolution of indirect infringement, alleging that the company encouraged third parties — such as licensed casinos and operators — to offer the disputed games to players.
Furthermore, these games were actively promoted at international trade shows, including G2E Las Vegas, to expand their footprint in the U.S. market.
Not Evolution’s First Patent Battle
At the same time, Evolution is engaged in a separate lawsuit against Light & Wonder, accusing the latter of copying the Lightning Roulette concept.
As a result, the Lightning series has become the focus of multiple legal disputes—each with potential implications for the U.S. live casino industry.