The fractured legacy between Japan and China aside, Sony Interactive Entertainment is suing Tencent for copyright infringement, seeking significant damages and aiming to halt the release of the Chinese company’s “slavish clone” video game, Light of Motiram.
According to a lawsuit filed on July 25 in federal court, Tencent’s unlawful copying of the protected audiovisual elements from the Horizon game series, as well as the adoption of a confusingly similar character mark, constitutes both copyright and trademark infringement. Sony demands immediate legal action to prevent irreparable harm to the company and the consuming public.
The background context involves longstanding accusations against Chinese companies for ignoring intellectual property (IP) rules. The Horizon franchise, first released in 2017, has sold tens of millions of copies worldwide, spawning multiple sequels and spin-offs, including the upcoming LEGO Horizon Adventures set for 2024, highlighting the substantial financial stakes.
Sony is aiming for statutory damages up to $150,000 for each infringed work in the Horizon franchise, and requests both preliminary and permanent injunctions to block Light of Motiram from ever entering the market.
The lawsuit details specific character similarities, particularly the main protagonist of Horizon Zero Dawn, Aloy — notable for her fiery red hair, tribal-inspired attire, and distinctive facial markings. Sony claims Tencent used a direct copy of Aloy as the centerpiece of its marketing, deliberately confusing fans into thinking Light of Motiram is part of the official Horizon series.
While neither Sony nor Tencent have publicly commented on the lawsuit, the filing reveals Sony initially attempted to collaborate with Tencent. In March 2024, Tencent proposed developing an official Horizon game in partnership with Sony, which was rejected by Sony.
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Sony further disclosed attempts to resolve the dispute informally, with Tencent seeking a license for the Horizon intellectual property. Sony firmly declined, objecting to Light of Motiram and demanding its withdrawal. Tencent rejected these demands and continues development.
As the battle escalates, Sony’s message is clear — protecting their intellectual property rights is paramount.
Game on!
