HoYoverse, the developer behind hit games such as Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero, has secured a significant legal victory in its ongoing fight against cheats and hacks. A court ruling has ordered a cheat software developer to pay $1.5 million in damages for violating the copyright and technological protection measures (TPMs) of Genshin Impact.
Strict Legal Action Against Cheats and Hacks
Represented by international law firm DLA Piper under its legal entity Cognosphere Pte. Ltd., HoYoverse sued the developer of the cheat software. The defendant, a self-proclaimed hacker, created tools designed to alter gameplay in Genshin Impact, thereby violating both copyright law and the game’s TPMs.
The court not only imposed a $1.5 million fine on the developer but also issued an injunction prohibiting further infringements on HoYoverse’s rights.
A History of Protecting Copyright
This case underscores HoYoverse’s firm stance against cheating and intellectual property violations. The company has a track record of taking legal action to protect its games:
- 2022: Three individuals were sentenced to four years in prison for creating illegal cheats for Genshin Impact.
- 2022: A major leak controversy involving Ubatcha led to a court-issued order.
- 2023: HoYoverse pursued legal action against individuals leaking content related to the Fontaine update and dismantled a group selling cheats as part of its Anti-Infringement Campaign.
Implications of the Judgment
While the developer in this case avoided jail time, the $1.5 million penalty is a stark reminder of the financial risks associated with creating and distributing cheat software. HoYoverse’s aggressive legal measures aim to maintain a fair gaming environment and protect the integrity of its intellectual property.
