A troubling incident has surfaced in the gaming industry, as indie game developer Steelkrill Studio has discovered that their game, The Backrooms 1998, has been stolen and listed for sale on multiple digital platforms, including the Nintendo eShop. This case highlights an ongoing problem within the gaming industry, affecting both developers and consumers.
The Rising Threat of Stolen Indie Games
With digital storefronts offering unprecedented access to audiences, independent developers can now publish and distribute their games with relative ease. While this has paved the way for major indie successes like Stardew Valley, it has also opened doors for malicious actors who profit from unauthorized game copies.
Steelkrill Studio recently took to Reddit and other social media platforms to raise awareness about their stolen game, which has been rebranded as Backrooms Horror Escape and published by an entity known as “COOL DEVS.” According to Steelkrill, the unauthorized version is nearly identical to the original, with only minor modifications such as a different monster model and a swapped-out image. The game was reportedly available on Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo’s digital stores, but swift action from Microsoft and Sony resulted in its removal from their respective platforms. Unfortunately, the Nintendo eShop has been less responsive to takedown requests.
Nintendo’s Response Sparks Concern
Despite Steelkrill Studio filing a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) complaint, they claim that Nintendo has dismissed their request, stating that they do not see an issue with the game. Frustrated by the lack of action, the developer has continued providing additional proof, but as of now, the counterfeit game remains available for purchase on the eShop.
This situation has sparked concern among gamers and industry professionals alike. Many have expressed frustration over digital storefronts’ inadequate vetting processes, which allow plagiarized games to slip through and deceive unsuspecting buyers. Unlike platforms such as Steam, which provides refunds for dissatisfied customers, the Nintendo eShop maintains a strict no-refund policy, further exacerbating the issue.
A Growing Problem in the Digital Marketplace
This case underscores broader issues with digital game distribution. The lack of stringent content verification leaves indie developers vulnerable to theft, while gamers risk purchasing fraudulent products. Many in the gaming community hope that increased attention to this case will pressure Nintendo into removing the unauthorized game and reassessing their policies to better protect developers.
Until then, Steelkrill Studio continues to fight for the rightful ownership of their work, while the industry grapples with the ongoing challenge of maintaining fair and secure digital marketplaces.
