Tencent being sued by Sony over alleged copy of Horizon game
In a shocking turn of events, Sony has taken legal action against Tencent over the latter's upcoming game, Light of Motiram. The lawsuit, filed in California on July 25, 2023, accuses Tencent of creating a near-identical knockoff of Sony's acclaimed Horizon series.
Sony's complaint, which includes copyright and trademark infringement, as well as false designation of origin, alleges that Light of Motiram copies multiple distinctive elements of the Horizon games. These include identical story and gameplay themes, cultural and character elements, art style, lighting, and camera points of view.
According to the lawsuit, Tencent had initially approached Sony at the 2024 Game Developers Conference to negotiate a licensing deal to develop a Horizon game. Sony refused this request. Despite this, Tencent proceeded with Light of Motiram, promoting it and conducting playtests, which Sony claims demonstrates willful infringement.
Sony is seeking a permanent injunction barring Tencent from further infringement, monetary damages of up to $150,000 for each infringed Horizon work, and delivery of all infringing materials to Sony for destruction. The company emphasises that Light of Motiram is a “slavish clone” of its Horizon series and alleges the similarities could confuse consumers about the origin of the game.
The potential outcomes of this case vary but may include the court granting Sony’s injunction, preventing Tencent from distributing or marketing Light of Motiram as currently made. Financial damages could also be awarded to Sony if the copyright and trademark claims are upheld. A possible settlement or licensing agreement could be reached if both parties reach terms. If Tencent successfully defends itself, it could continue development or distribution of the game.
The lawsuit cites specific visual and stylistic elements, including mechanical wildlife, the protagonist's design, and promotional fonts. Light of Motiram is currently available for wishlisting on platforms like Steam, but its fate depends on courtroom decisions. Sony insists that Light of Motiram be pulled and has objected to its release.
This case involves two of gaming's biggest players, Sony and Tencent. It's important to note that this is not the first high-profile IP clash in the industry. Last year, Nintendo targeted Palworld developers over Pokémon-like mechanics. If Sony succeeds, Light of Motiram could be delayed, modified, or even blocked entirely.
Light of Motiram was developed by Aurora Studios, operating under Polaris Quest in China, without disclosing its prior development plans during the pitch. Tencent responded by attempting to license the Horizon IP after the fact, which was refused by Sony. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how closely developers can follow the aesthetic and mechanics of existing franchises before being called out for crossing the line.
Technology plays a crucial role in the legal battle between Sony and Tencent, with Sony accusing Tencent of using advanced technology to create a near-identical knockoff of the acclaimed Horizon series, using similar gadgets, art style, lighting, and camera perspectives. On the other hand, the development of Light of Motiram by Aurora Studios, using technology and aesthetics reminiscent of the Horizon series, is at the heart of the lawsuit.
