Sony and Tencent Resolve Intellectual Property Dispute Over 'Light of Motiram'

A legal conflict between Sony and Tencent regarding the video game Light of Motiram, which was perceived to be highly similar to Sony's Horizon Zero Dawn, has concluded with an out-of-court settlement.

Initially unveiled in early 2025, Light of Motiram was marketed as an action game featuring popular elements such as base-building, crafting, cooperative gameplay, and robot hunting. Its protagonist, a red-haired woman in a cybernetic outfit, and certain visual elements, bore a striking resemblance to Sony's Aloy and iconic scenes from Horizon Zero Dawn. Compounding the issue, Sony presented evidence that Tencent had previously pitched a mobile spin-off of Horizon Zero Dawn with similar mechanics. This led Sony to file a lawsuit, accusing Tencent of "shamelessly" cloning their intellectual property and seeking damages, as well as the destruction of all related promotional material for Light of Motiram.

Tencent countered by arguing that Horizon Zero Dawn's concept was not unique and that Light of Motiram, still in development with a projected 2027 release, could evolve significantly. However, a month after the initial dispute, Tencent revised Light of Motiram's marketing to differentiate it, altering visuals and descriptions. Subsequently, Tencent agreed to halt all promotions and public testing for the game. The case has now been dismissed with prejudice, preventing future litigation on the matter. The financial details of the settlement are undisclosed, with each party covering its legal expenses. The future status of Light of Motiram, including any potential re-release under a new name or modified concept, remains ambiguous, suggesting the current project's dormancy.

This resolution underscores the critical importance of intellectual property rights within the rapidly evolving entertainment industry. It highlights the necessity for innovation and originality in creative works while serving as a reminder that legal frameworks are in place to protect these aspects. Such outcomes encourage a fair and competitive landscape where creators can thrive, confident that their efforts and unique contributions are safeguarded.