‘Fame Does Not Create a Trademark’: Sony, Tencent’s War of Words Over Horizon Rip-Off Rage On

Tencent is not conceding in its battle against Sony concerning the supposed Horizon imitation Light of Motiram.

The two entities have exchanged legal blows several times now, with the PlayStation creator initially characterizing its Chinese adversary’s attempt as a “servile replica”.

It sought the total withdrawal of the project, which it claimed could significantly affect the future expansion of the Horizon franchise due to its resemblances.

Tencent countered by submitting a motion to dismiss, contending that Sony is pursuing “an unacceptable monopoly on genre norms”. It highlighted that the PlayStation asset also exhibits similarities with games such as The Legend of Zelda and Enslaved: Odyssey to the West.

PlayStation subsequently dismissed the firm’s claims as “absurd” and accused it of attempting to conceal itself behind its numerous subsidiaries.

Now Tencent has once more reacted, urging courts to dismiss the case again, as reported by The Game Post.

The company noted that since Light of Motiram is not set to launch until late 2027, the Japanese giant is voicing grievances about “future actions” concerning a project that hasn’t been released. It argued that the case is premature and does not deserve evaluation at this point.

It reiterated that Sony is pursuing the incorrect party, as Tencent Holdings is “not the creator or distributor” of the game in question. It emphasized that Tencent Shanghai and Proximity Beta are the producers of the title – distinct entities that are subsidiaries of Tencent.

The firm also rebutted PlayStation’s assertions concerning protagonist Aloy, asserting “fame does not constitute a trademark”.

It stated that Sony cannot depend solely on the character’s fame or recognition, and contended that the company has failed to “define Aloy’s appearance as a trademark outside of the game”.

“In the complaint, Sony claims that the alleged mark is defined by its clothing, accessories, and facial markings. However, generalized descriptions are insufficient to establish a trademark,” it responded.

Sony and Tencent have both had the chance to present their cases, and subsequently, the courts will determine whether this case progresses further or is dismissed.

PlayStation is likely hoping to advance proceedings, as it ultimately seeks to halt Light of Motiram. Meanwhile, the Chinese firm desires the entire case to be quashed.

If the courts decide in favor of Sony, a lengthy legal struggle may be anticipated, unless Tencent eventually opts to negotiate a settlement.

A ruling regarding whether this case will proceed should be expected in the near future.