Sony's Copyright Crackdown on Bloodborne Fan Projects Intensifies
The Bloodborne PSX demake, a highly acclaimed fan-made project, has become the latest victim of Sony Interactive Entertainment's copyright enforcement. This follows last week's takedown of the popular Bloodborne 60fps mod.
Lance McDonald, creator of the Bloodborne 60fps mod, announced receiving a DMCA takedown notice from Sony, requiring the removal of online links to his patch—four years after its release. Similarly, Lilith Walther, creator of the Bloodborne PSX demake and Nightmare Kart (formerly Bloodborne Kart), reported a copyright claim by MarkScan Enforcement on a YouTube video showcasing her demake.
McDonald revealed that MarkScan is a company contracted by Sony, the same entity responsible for the DMCA takedown of his 60fps mod. He expressed bewilderment at Sony's actions, questioning the motivations behind these aggressive takedowns.
Bloodborne's continued absence from next-gen platforms remains a significant point of contention among fans. While the game was critically acclaimed upon its PS4 release, Sony has yet to release an official next-gen patch, remaster, or sequel. Recent breakthroughs in PS4 emulation, enabling 60fps gameplay on PC via ShadPS4, have fueled speculation about Sony's response. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment but has yet to receive a reply.
McDonald proposed a "copium theory"—that Sony's actions are a preemptive measure to clear the way for an official 60fps remake. He suggests that removing fan-made projects addressing 60fps gameplay and remakes would prevent trademark conflicts should Sony announce an official release.
Despite these aggressive moves, Sony has given no indication of future plans for Bloodborne. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida offered a personal theory, suggesting that Hidetaka Miyazaki's strong attachment to the game and his busy schedule prevent him from authorizing a remaster or sequel, and that Sony respects his wishes.
Bloodborne remains largely untouched nearly a decade after its initial release. While Miyazaki often deflects questions about the game's future, citing FromSoftware's lack of IP ownership, he did acknowledge in February 2023 that a release on modern hardware would be beneficial. The situation leaves fans in a state of anticipation and uncertainty regarding the future of this beloved title.
