Tencent Hits Back: Sony Accused of “Monopolising” Gaming Tropes in Light of Motiram Lawsuit

Sapatar / Updated: Sep 22, 2025, 18:10 IST 51 Share
Tencent Hits Back: Sony Accused of “Monopolising” Gaming Tropes in Light of Motiram Lawsuit

Tencent has responded strongly to Sony’s ongoing Light of Motiram lawsuit, accusing the Japanese gaming giant of “monopolising” genre conventions and stifling creative freedom in the industry. The legal clash stems from Sony’s claim that Tencent’s Light of Motiram infringes upon protected elements from one of its own blockbuster titles.

Core of the Dispute

Sony alleges that Light of Motiram mirrors story structure, gameplay mechanics, and character archetypes from its critically acclaimed franchise. Tencent, however, argues that these elements fall under generic conventions long established in the gaming world, making them free for all developers to adopt.

Tencent’s Counterargument

In its motion for dismissal, Tencent asserted that no company should be allowed to claim ownership over narrative tropes or widely used mechanics such as quest progression, battle systems, or hero-versus-antagonist dynamics. The company further warned that Sony’s claims, if upheld, could set a dangerous precedent limiting creative expression across the industry.

Broader Industry Impact

Analysts note that this case is not just about Light of Motiram but about defining the boundaries of intellectual property in gaming. Tencent’s stance echoes concerns among developers who fear that granting monopolistic rights over genre staples could hinder innovation and result in legal bottlenecks.

What’s Next in Court

The court is expected to review Tencent’s dismissal request in the coming weeks. While Sony remains firm on its allegations, Tencent appears determined to frame the case as a battle over creative freedom versus corporate overreach. Industry insiders believe the outcome could reshape how studios approach game design and intellectual property law in the future.