Rockstar’s Parent Company Take-Two Files Copyright Complaint Against Modders
Take-Two Interactive Software, the parent company of Rockstar Games, has officially lodged a complaint against modders who they claim violated the copyright of their games.
The Complaint Targets “re3” and “reVC” Projects
Take-Two’s complaint specifically focuses on the developers behind two projects called “re3” and “reVC,” which are abbreviations for reverse-engineered GTA 3 and GTA: Vice City.
Unauthorized Distribution and Modification of Games
Take-Two alleges that these developers have created code that allows players to access the games on platforms not officially supported by the company, including PlayStation Vita and Nintendo Switch.
In addition, Take-Two claims that the defendants have made changes and improvements to the original game’s software code. This modified code was then made available on GitHub, a platform for sharing software code.
Disputes Over DMCA Takedown Requests
Take-Two’s lawsuit comes after the defendants successfully challenged three DMCA takedown requests on GitHub. However, Take-Two argues that these counterclaims were filed inaccurately and in bad faith.
The developers believed their actions fell under fair use, as they claimed to be enhancing and fixing the game while making it available on new platforms.
The Legal Battle Ahead
Take-Two disputes the defendants’ fair use defense and accuses them of knowingly misrepresenting the code’s contents to GitHub.
Whether the court considers the defendants’ modifications enough to amount to fair use will be a central issue in the lawsuit.
The Role of Reverse-Engineering
Reverse-engineering involves dissecting objects to understand how they work. In this case, the defendants’ use of reverse-engineering techniques will be a key factor in determining whether they infringed on copyright.
Take-Two’s Requests for Relief
In their complaint, Take-Two asks for the removal of all source code and games from the internet. They also seek damages and attorney’s fees.
At this stage, the lawsuit is still in its early phases, with the first case management meeting scheduled for December. It may take until late next year for the trial to commence, assuming it reaches that stage. The defendants have 30 days to respond to the claim.