No Doubt publicly expressed disapproval over their appearance in "Band Hero" last year by filing a lawsuit against Activision. Just as Courtney Love became angered over Kurt Cobain's use in "Guitar Hero 5," the band claimed "Band Hero" crossed a line by allowing them to be used singing other performers' songs. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Kenji Machida made at least one decision in the band's favor last Thursday, but Activision has announced that they will appeal.
The tentative ruling rejected Activision’s attempt to use a 1st Amendment-based freedom-of-speech defense in the case, though the company claimed they will appeal, according to a report by the Los Angeles Times. No Doubt maintains that their avatars in "Band Hero" were only approved for use in three No Doubt songs included in the game. Activision disputes that they did anything wrong, but the case looks like it will move forward.
Between this and the Infinity Ward-related lawsuits, Activision has got some high-profile and potentially high-stakes court fights to get through right now. If No Doubt wins, it will be interesting to see what happens with the existing game and what an unfavorable result for Activision could mean for their Hero games in the future.
What do you think about No Doubts claims in the "Band Hero" case? Did you enjoy unlocking them and using them for non-No Doubt tracks? Share your opinions in the comment section below.