The legal dispute between Sony and Tencent over the video game Light of Motiram, considered a clone of Horizon Zero Dawn, continues to intensify. Earlier this year, Sony filed a lawsuit against the Chinese conglomerate, claiming that the development of Light of Motiram was based on a failed proposal to adapt Horizon for the mobile market. The Japanese company argues that the new title features artistic and character similarities with its successful video game, particularly with its protagonist, Aloy.
A game too similar to Horizon
In its most recent legal response, which The Game Post has accessed, Sony accuses Tencent of damaging the Horizon brand and jeopardizing its commercial future. The company states that the defense presented by Tencent is “absurd” and points out that there is already confusion among consumers due to the marketing and similar appearance of both games. According to Sony, the use of similar characters and visual elements in Light of Motiram creates a false association between the two franchises, which could harm its reputation and success.
Tencet, for its part, defends its project arguing that Horizon is not an original concept and that its development is in a preliminary phase. They claim that rushing plagiarism accusations is exaggerated, pointing out that many video games share common elements. However, Sony has emphasized that the “damage is already done,” especially after the release date of Light of Motiram was moved to 2027 following the lawsuit.
As both companies dig in their heels in their respective positions, the legal battle seems far from resolved. This confrontation could not only have significant consequences for the two companies, but it could also set a precedent regarding the limits of inspiration and intellectual property in the video game industry, marking a critical point in how similarities between titles are managed in an increasingly competitive market.
