Sony Files Lawsuit Against Tencent for Copyright Infringement Over 'Light of Motiram'

Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has initiated a lawsuit against Tencent Games, alleging copyright and trademark infringement concerning Tencent's upcoming adventure video game, "Light of Motiram." Filed in the Northern District Court of California on July 28, 2025, Sony's complaint accuses Tencent of creating what it describes as a "slavish clone" of its successful "Horizon" series, particularly the acclaimed installments "Horizon Zero Dawn" and "Horizon Forbidden West."

The lawsuit highlights specific similarities between the two games, including the main character, "Aloy," who serves as the face of the "Horizon" franchise. Sony asserts that Tencent's marketing strategies have deliberately misled consumers into believing that "Light of Motiram" is a legitimate sequel to the "Horizon" series. As stated in the lawsuit, "Tencent’s copying of ‘Horizon’ is so blatant that the public has described it as ‘crazy,’ ‘insane,’ and ‘shameless.’"

Moreover, the complaint alleges that the character in "Light of Motiram" is a young woman with red hair, embodying characteristics reminiscent of Aloy. The world setting also mirrors that of the "Horizon" franchise, featuring tribal groups battling against massive robotic creatures in a post-apocalyptic landscape. This thematic overlap has led Sony to argue that Tencent's game has the potential to confuse gamers about the relationship between the two titles.

Sony further claims that Tencent had previously approached the company in 2023 to propose a collaboration involving the "Horizon" IP. However, after Sony rejected this proposal, Tencent allegedly proceeded with developing "Light of Motiram" without authorization. The lawsuit states, "Tencent was undeterred by SIE’s refusal to license its Horizon intellectual property."

In terms of damages, Sony is seeking $150,000 for each infringement related to the "Horizon" franchise, as well as compensation for any actual damages incurred due to Tencent's alleged copyright violations. As of now, Tencent has not disclosed a release date for "Light of Motiram," and representatives from the company did not provide immediate comments regarding the lawsuit.

The implications of this legal battle are significant for both companies and the gaming industry at large. If Sony's claims are validated, the case could set a precedent regarding copyright protections in the gaming sector, particularly concerning the portrayal of character designs and thematic elements.

Experts in intellectual property law have noted that video game copyrights can be complex, often involving nuanced interpretations of originality and creativity. Dr. Emily Carter, a Professor of Intellectual Property Law at Stanford University, stated, "This lawsuit could define the boundaries of what constitutes copyright infringement in the gaming industry, particularly as it relates to character design and thematic elements."

As the case unfolds, it will shed light on the legal frameworks governing intellectual property in the gaming world, potentially influencing how companies navigate creative development and collaboration in the future. The resolution of this lawsuit is keenly awaited by industry stakeholders and gaming enthusiasts alike, who recognize the potential ramifications for both companies and the broader gaming landscape.