Tencent Countersues Sony in Major Horizon Zero Dawn Copyright Dispute

Sony Interactive Entertainment is facing a strong legal challenge from Tencent. The Chinese tech giant has filed a motion to dismiss Sony’s recent copyright lawsuit. The legal battle centers on the upcoming game Light of Motiram.

Tencent argues the case has no merit. It claims Sony is attempting to monopolize common sci-fi genre tropes.

Tencent Alleges Jurisdictional and Legal Flaws in Sony’s Case

Tencent’s legal response highlights several key issues. It argues the California court lacks jurisdiction over its parent company. Tencent Holdings is incorporated in the Cayman Islands and based in China.

The motion also states the accused developers have not been served. It says Sony’s claims are vague and improperly lump all entities together. This creates a weak foundation for the lawsuit, according to Tencent’s filing.

Dispute Centers on Genre Tropes Versus Direct Copying

The core of Tencent’s defense challenges Sony’s copyright claim. It argues Light of Motiram uses common genre elements, not unique Horizon assets. The motion cites several similar games that predate Horizon Zero Dawn.

Notably, Tencent referenced a documentary featuring Guerrilla Games. According to Reuters, developers once shelved Horizon for its similarity to ‘Enslaved: Odyssey to the West’. This historical context is a central part of Tencent’s argument against Sony.

Tencent asserts Sony’s lawsuit is an overreach. It seeks an impermissible monopoly on popular post-apocalyptic themes. The company has already altered Light of Motiram’s marketing to further distance it from Horizon.

The outcome of this motion could set a significant precedent for intellectual property in the gaming industry. It challenges how companies can protect stylistic ideas versus direct copies. The entire industry is watching the Tencent Sony lawsuit closely.

Info at your fingertips

What is Light of Motiram?

It is an upcoming action game from Tencent-owned Polaris Quest. The game features a post-apocalyptic world with animal-like machines. It includes survival and base-building mechanics.

Why did Sony sue Tencent?

Sony alleges Light of Motiram infringes on its Horizon copyrights and trademarks. It claims the game’s visuals and themes are too similar. Sony also suggests Tencent developed it after failed mobile game talks.

What is Tencent’s main defense?

Tencent argues it is using common genre tropes, not copying protected assets. It cites other games with similar settings that existed before Horizon. The company claims Sony is trying to own an entire genre.

Has Light of Motiram been changed?

Yes, the developer has altered its public-facing content. The protagonist, who closely resembled Aloy, has been changed. New screenshots and descriptions emphasize its unique survival elements.

When will the game be released?

The current Steam listing indicates a Q4 2027 release window. This distant date is another point in Tencent’s motion, arguing the alleged infringement has not yet occurred.

Trusted Sources: Reuters