Cases of copyright infringement in the gaming industry are again a concern. Recently, a developer of cheats for Genshin Impact sentenced to severe penalties. This decision highlights the importance of maintaining a fair gaming ecosystem, while providing a deterrent to those who break the rules.
Joaquin Soriano's Activities and Cheat Development
Joaquin Soriano, better known as "Taiga," is the main developer of the cheats for Genshin Impact. The cheats he developed provide significant advantages, such as skill cooldown removal, infinite stamina, teleportation, and invincibility, which directly damage the balance of the game.
These cheats are distributed through a free model for basic features and subscription for premium features. Soriano is also affiliated with cheat groups such as Akebi Group and Crepe Team, which are responsible for the widespread distribution of cheats.
Legal Action by COGNOSPHERE
COGNOSPHERE (the company established by HoYoverse as the publisher of their games, including Genshin Impact, outside of China), took decisive action to stop this illegal activity. In November 2022, they filed DMCA takedown to remove the cheat repository Soriano uploaded on GitHub. Furthermore, in March 2023, they sent a cease-and-desist letter after finding that Soriano continued to develop cheats despite receiving warnings.
This action was the final step taken after previous attempts failed to stop Soriano's illegal activities. More information regarding this chronology can be found through reports from Torrent Freak.
Court Decision
The court ruled that Joaquin Soriano must pay CAD$1.5 million (approximately USD$1.05 million or around Rp16 billion) in damages to COGNOSPHERE. This amount is much larger than the initial demand of CAD$50,000 (around Rp550 million). This penalty is aimed at providing a deterrent effect to other copyright infringers, as well as affirming the legal protection of intellectual works.
In addition to the fine, the court also prohibited Soriano from committing further offenses against the Genshin Impact or other works belonging to HoYoverse. Full information regarding this decision was released by law firm DLA Piper, which can be accessed via their official website.
Official Statement from COGNOSPHERE's Lawyer
Law firm DLA Piper, which represents COGNOSPHERE, stated, "Game developers and publishers work hard to make online gaming safe, fun, and provide a satisfying experience for those who play by the rules." Ryan Black, one of the lead attorneys, added, "This legal move is aimed at protecting a safe and fair gaming experience."
Bentley Gaikis also said, "We are pleased to be able to demonstrate the legal mechanisms available to stop those who ruin games by infringing copyright." This statement gives a stern warning to anyone trying to infringe copyrights in the future.
The Joaquin Soriano case provides an important lesson on the impact of copyright infringement in gaming. The court's decision is expected to have a deterrent effect and protect players who want to enjoy a fair gaming experience.
For you, loyal players Genshin ImpactSupporting cheat-free games is a form of appreciation for developers. Let's play honestly and keep the gaming community fun for all.
Source: DLA Piper Via Anime Corner
