Cyberpunk 2077 VR Developer Faces Backlash from Pirates After Mod Removal
The developer behind the R.E.A.L VR mod for Cyberpunk 2077 has faced significant backlash following the recent removal of the mod due to a DMCA strike by CD Projekt Red. Luke Ross, the creator, expressed his frustrations regarding the situation and the culture of piracy that has emerged in response to this action.
Backlash Against Mod Removal
In an interview with IGN, Ross detailed how the unexpected DMCA strike led to a surge in piracy. Users began illegally sharing the mod after its removal from his Patreon account. He stated that this behavior seems to punish him for complying with CD Projekt Red’s policies. “People online claim that since I did not adhere to their Terms of Service, my work is fair game for them,” Ross explained.
Challenges of Making the Mod Free
When asked if he would consider releasing the Cyberpunk 2077 mod for free, Luke Ross indicated that doing so would require significant effort. He mentioned that his software currently supports over 40 different games and various engines. Creating a version solely for Cyberpunk 2077 is a complex task. Additionally, Ross noted that many supporters who have funded his efforts might not appreciate seeing the mod given away for free.
CD Projekt Red’s Policies
The conflict stems from CD Projekt Red’s stance on fan content. According to their guidelines, while fans can collect reasonable donations, they cannot charge for content derived from the company’s intellectual property. Ross stated, “This means that every little action by a company is often profit-driven, whereas modders are expected to provide their work for free.”
Impact on the VR Community
The fallout from the DMCA strike has raised concerns among VR enthusiasts. Many users fear losing access to immersive experiences in their favorite games as a result of these enforcement actions. Despite the backlash, the modding community continues to seek ways to adapt and support their projects amid stricter regulations.
- Creator: Luke Ross
- Mod Name: R.E.A.L VR
- Game: Cyberpunk 2077
- Company: CD Projekt Red
- Mod Removal Date: Early this week
- Games Supported by Ross’s Software: 40+
This incident underscores the ongoing tension between independent content creators and major gaming companies. Many within the gaming community are calling for clearer guidelines on what constitutes acceptable fan content.
