NetEase Games has announced that its online hero shooter game, “Hyper Front,” will be shutting down its services on April 10, 2023. The game was popular among fans for its competitive five-vs-five tactical matches, but it was also under scrutiny for its “striking resemblance” to another hit video gaming title: Riot Games’ “VALORANT.”

While no official reasons have been given for the shutdown, many speculate that the game’s likeness to “VALORANT” may be the cause. Riot Games, the developer behind “VALORANT,” sued NetEase Games for producing a copycat version of their popular game in December last year. The lawsuit states that Riot is demanding for “Hyper Front” be shut down.

Although not confirmed, this may have played a role in the shutdown of NetEase’s hero shooter. It’s also a huge coincidence since “VALORANT Mobile” the mobile adaptation of “VALORANT” is preparing to launch soon which, if “Hyper Front” was still active, will be a direct competitor against “VALORANT Mobile.”

Unfortunately, the game will no longer be available to its fan base, but it’s a reminder that game developers must respect copyright laws and intellectual property rights when creating new titles. The gaming industry thrives on healthy competition and innovative ideas that come from original game development.