Tencent Updates Light of Motar’s Horizon Clone Steam Page: Content Creators Encouraged to Educate Fans

Tencent Quietly edits ‘Light of Motiram‘ After Sony Horizon Lawsuit

San Francisco, CA – Tencent’s open-world survival game, Light of Motiram, is undergoing notable changes following a lawsuit filed by Sony alleging blatant copyright infringement of the Horizon franchise. The legal action, announced in July, claims Tencent proceeded with development of a “slavish clone” despite being denied a license to utilize Sony’s intellectual property.

Evidence of the game’s overhaul is surfacing on Steam,with numerous assets quietly removed or replaced. Light of Motiram’s Steam page has seen its cover image, previously featuring a character strikingly similar to Horizon’s Aloy, swapped for a new design. Promotional screenshots and trailers have also been pulled.

The game’s description has been revised, moving away from explicit references to “colossal machines” and “Mechanimals” – terms that directly echoed Horizon’s mechanical creatures. The original description highlighted building,technology advancement,and training animal-like robots,mirroring core gameplay elements of Horizon Forbidden West. The updated description now focuses on general survival themes and overcoming challenges in a dangerous land.

Sony’s lawsuit alleges Tencent initially requested permission to license the Horizon IP, only to continue development of Light of Motiram after being refused. This suggests a deliberate attempt to capitalize on the established success and visual identity of Guerrilla Games’ critically acclaimed series.

Evergreen Insights: The Growing Trend of IP Protection in Gaming

This case underscores a growing trend within the gaming industry: increasingly aggressive protection of intellectual property. As game development becomes more expensive and visually sophisticated, developers are more vigilant about safeguarding their unique creations. The success of titles like Horizon creates a strong incentive for imitation, but also raises the stakes for potential legal battles.

The Light of Motiram situation highlights the fine line between inspiration and outright copying. While drawing inspiration from triumphant games is common, replicating core mechanics, visual styles, and even character designs can quickly cross into legal territory.

This lawsuit could set a precedent for future cases, potentially deterring developers from creating overly similar games and reinforcing the importance of originality in the industry. Furthermore, it demonstrates Sony’s commitment to protecting its valuable IP, especially with film adaptations of Horizon Zero Dawn and helldivers 2 already in the works, further solidifying the franchise’s brand recognition.

Tencent has yet to publicly comment on the lawsuit or the changes made to Light of motiram. The game remains listed on Steam, but its future remains uncertain pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.

What specific aspects of mech customization in *Mechanical Ascent* differentiate it from similar games?

Steam Page Revamp & Key Changes

Tencent recently updated the Steam page for its mech combat game, previously known as the Horizon clone, now officially titled Mechanical Ascent. The update focuses on clarifying the game’s features, addressing initial community concerns, and actively soliciting support from content creators to inform players about the changes.This move comes after significant discussion surrounding the game’s visual similarities to Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero dawn and Horizon Forbidden West.

The revamped Steam page highlights:

Core Gameplay Loop: Focused on mech customization, exploration, and large-scale battles against robotic creatures.

Updated Visuals: Showcasing improved textures, lighting, and mech designs. Tencent has emphasized a distinct art style evolution.

Detailed System Requirements: Providing clearer specifications for PC players.

New Screenshots & Videos: Offering a more comprehensive look at gameplay and environments.

Clarified Story Elements: Expanding on the narrative and world-building within Mechanical Ascent.

Why the Focus on Content Creators?

Tencent recognizes the power of community-driven data, especially in addressing the initial negative perception surrounding the game. By actively engaging content creators – streamers, YouTubers, and gaming journalists – thay aim to:

Demonstrate Differentiation: Showcase how Mechanical Ascent distinguishes itself from Horizon beyond the initial visual comparisons. Key differentiators include the game’s focus on mech building and customization, and its unique combat mechanics.

Build trust & Openness: Openly address concerns and provide creators wiht early access and information.

Expand Reach: Leverage creator audiences to introduce Mechanical Ascent to a wider player base.

Generate authentic Gameplay Footage: Allow creators to showcase the game’s mechanics and features organically.

Content Creator Resources & Support

Tencent is offering several resources to support content creators covering Mechanical Ascent:

Press Kits: containing high-resolution screenshots, videos, and game information.

early Access Keys: Providing opportunities for pre-release gameplay and content creation.

Developer Interviews: Facilitating direct dialog with the advancement team.

Dedicated Discord Channel: Creating a space for creators to connect with Tencent and each other.

Asset library: Offering a range of in-game assets for use in videos and streams.

Addressing the “Horizon Clone” Controversy

The initial reaction to Mechanical Ascent was largely negative,with many labeling it a blatant Horizon clone. Tencent has responded by:

1. Acknowledging the Similarities: Recognizing the visual inspiration but emphasizing the distinct gameplay and mechanics.
2. Highlighting Unique Features: focusing on the depth of mech customization, the scale of battles, and the narrative elements that set Mechanical Ascent apart.
3. Iterating on Design: Making visual adjustments to further differentiate the game’s aesthetic.
4. Transparency with the Community: Actively engaging in discussions and addressing concerns on platforms like Steam and social media.

The Role of Mech Games in the Current Market

The mech genre has seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by titles like Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon and continued interest in franchises like Titanfall. Mechanical Ascent aims to capitalize on this growing demand by offering a unique take on the genre. Key search terms related to this trend include: “mech games 2024,” “best mech games PC,” “robot games,” and “mech combat simulator.” The success of Mechanical Ascent will depend on its ability to carve out its own niche within this competitive landscape.

Tencent’s Broader Strategy in the Gaming Industry

This push with Mechanical Ascent reflects Tencent’s broader strategy of investing in and publishing diverse gaming experiences. The company has a significant portfolio of titles across various genres, and is increasingly focused on bringing Chinese-developed games to a global audience. Recent examples include Warframe and Dungeon Fighter Online. This strategy also involves actively addressing community feedback and fostering relationships with content creators to build long-term engagement. The company’s handling of potential copyright issues, like those initially raised with Mechanical Ascent, will be crucial for maintaining a positive reputation.

practical Tips for Content Creators

If you’re a content creator considering covering Mechanical Ascent, here are some tips:

Focus on the Customization: Showcase the depth and breadth of the mech customization options.

Highlight the Combat: Demonstrate the unique combat mechanics and the scale of the battles.

Compare & Contrast (Responsibly): Acknowledge the similarities to Horizon* but