Congratulations MGA Entertainment - Bratz to give up pokies

Yesterday's post talked about the japanese Bratzpack site with its online slot machine game. Overnight (Australian Time) many in the gambling service provider and research community worldwide expressed their concern to the company with the only response being that it was not an MGA Entertainment site but a site based in Japan.

This morning, the Gambling Guru did an investigation into Avex Networks, the holders of the domain, Bratzpack.JP. My investigations showed that Avex was a genuine licensee of MGA and produced CDs in Japan as the Bratz trademark. Avex is a major company, with major music distribution rights in Japan as well as producing animated series for the US market.

I decided to email Director of Public Relations, Mr Dave Malacrida directly with my concerns, which are shared by many worldwide. Within four hours, I received a positive response (To view the full response with my letter click here) from MGA Entertainment's Senior Counsel, Mr David Oakes. The following is from his response:

While Avex is a licensee of MGA, the website www.bratzpack.jp has not been authorized by MGA, nor has the content been approved. MGA does not approve of the use of a Slot Game on has sent a notice to Avex to remove this game immediately.

The Gambling Guru, and Gambler's Help Southern would like to congratulate MGA Entertainment on taking responsibility and action on this issue. Their response is welcomed.

A successful outcome is expected, but GG and others will watch out to ensure that the functionality is removed promptly.

GG