Genshin Impact Creator Sues to Remove Fan Wiki
HoYoverse, the developer of the hit game Genshin Impact, is taking legal action to remove a fan-operated wiki known as HomDGCat. This lawsuit was filed in a Georgia court. The creators of Genshin Impact accuse the wiki’s maintainer, using the alias HomDGCat, of engaging in activities that unlawfully disclose unreleased information related to Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail.
Allegations Against the HomDGCat Wiki
HoYoverse’s legal documents detail how HomDGCat has allegedly run a coordinated effort to access and publicize confidential data. The wiki claims to offer valuable resources, such as tutorials and updates, to enhance player experience. However, HoYoverse argues that it has become a repository of illegally acquired content.
Details of the Lawsuit
According to court filings, HoYoverse maintains that they have repeatedly attempted to address issues with the HomDGCat wiki. The gaming company contends that HomDGCat obtained unreleased information by pressuring beta testers to share confidential materials. Internal communications provided in the lawsuit show HomDGCat soliciting beta files to support unauthorized data mining efforts.
Impact on HoYoverse
HoYoverse asserts that the unauthorized dissemination of information has adversely affected public interest and competition. They claim this unauthorized content gives their competitors an unfair advantage by revealing insights into unreleased features. The company has previously issued multiple DMCA takedown notices and in December, sent a cease-and-desist letter to HomDGCat.
- Claims of thousands of pieces of unreleased content posted.
- Accusations of copyright infringement regarding artwork and dialogue.
- Demands for removal of remaining material on the wiki.
HomDGCat reportedly responded to some demands but did not cease data mining or submitting unauthorized content. The ongoing accessibility of the HomDGCat wiki has not been fully addressed by its creator.
Legal Precedents and Context
HoYoverse’s actions are part of a broader strategy to combat leaks affecting their games. In addition to this recent lawsuit against HomDGCat, the company has pursued several legal avenues to protect their intellectual property. This included securing a default judgment against a different leaker, resulting in a $15,000 fine.
Moreover, in a 2024 case against a Genshin Impact hack creator, HoYoverse recovered $1.5 million in damages. The company’s focus on mitigating leaks underscores the importance they place on maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of their unreleased content.
Current Status and Future Actions
As of now, HoYoverse is seeking court orders to permanently shut down the HomDGCat website and its associated social media accounts. The lawsuit encompasses claims for damages concerning trade secret misappropriation and copyright infringements.
While HoYoverse has not publicly commented on the pending case, the outcome of this legal battle may have significant implications for fan-created content in the gaming community.
