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Full Breakdown

Tencent Halts Promotion of Light of Motiram Amid Sony Lawsuit

12/4/2025, 1:43:00 PM

Legal Dispute Overview

Tencent has agreed to suspend all promotion and public testing of its upcoming game, *Light of Motiram*, as it prepares for a significant court case against Sony. The lawsuit, initiated by Sony in July 2025, accuses Tencent of copyright and trademark infringement, alleging that *Light of Motiram* is a "slavish clone" of its *Horizon* series, particularly mimicking the lead character, Aloy. Sony's legal action aims to prevent the imminent release of the game, which is scheduled for Q4 2027.

Key Developments in the Lawsuit

In response to Sony's request for a preliminary injunction, Tencent has committed to halting any marketing activities and public testing of *Light of Motiram* until the court hears the case. This agreement includes stipulations that the game’s release will not be advanced and that Tencent will not seek expedited discovery related to the injunction. The court proceedings are set to begin on January 29, 2026, with Tencent expected to present its argument against the injunction by December 17, 2025, and Sony required to respond by January 2, 2026.

Tencent's Defense

Tencent has contested Sony's claims, arguing that the lawsuit represents an attempt by Sony to monopolize common gaming elements. The company asserts that *Light of Motiram* utilizes established genre conventions that are not exclusive to Sony. Tencent’s legal team has described Sony's actions as an "improper attempt to fence off a well-trodden corner of popular culture." Furthermore, Tencent has made adjustments to *Light of Motiram's* promotional materials in response to the allegations.

Sony's Position

Sony maintains that Tencent's game closely imitates its *Horizon* franchise, causing confusion among gamers. The company has accused Tencent of not only copying the character Aloy but also infringing on the overall aesthetic and narrative elements of the *Horizon* series. Sony's legal filings emphasize the ongoing damage caused by Tencent's promotional activities, asserting that "the damage is done – and it continues."

Criticism & Opposition

Critics of Sony's lawsuit argue that it could stifle creativity within the gaming industry by attempting to claim ownership over genre conventions. Tencent has labeled Sony's claims as "nonsense," suggesting that the lawsuit is more about protecting a brand than safeguarding genuine intellectual property rights.

What's Next

Both companies have jointly requested that the court extend the briefing schedule for the motions to dismiss and the injunction request, with hearings now set for January 29, 2026. As the legal battle unfolds, *Light of Motiram* will remain out of the public eye, with no new promotional content expected until the court reaches a decision.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “the damage is done – and it continues.” — Sony Interactive Entertainment
  • “fame does not create a trademark; to qualify as a trademark, a mark must serve as a source identifier for a particular good or service.” — Tencent's Legal Team
  • “an improper attempt to fence off a well-trodden corner of popular culture and declare it Sony's exclusive domain,” — Tencent's Defense Statement

This ongoing legal dispute between Tencent and Sony highlights the complexities of copyright and trademark laws within the gaming industry, particularly as companies navigate the fine line between inspiration and imitation.