In an unexpected turn of events, Studio Wildcard and Myth of Empires developer Angela Game have settled a heated legal dispute involving allegations of source code theft. The settlement paves the way for collaboration between the once-adversarial studios.
Keypoints
- Studio Wildcard accused Myth of Empires of using stolen Ark: Survival Evolved code, getting it removed from Steam in 2021.
- Myth of Empires developer Angela Game denied the allegations and sued to get back on Steam.
- Now the companies have settled the dispute and will work together to re-release Myth of Empires in early 2024.
- As part of the settlement, Snail Games will withdraw its DMCA takedown notice against Myth of Empires.
- Snail Games will assist with bringing Myth of Empires to more platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and helping with marketing.
- Myth of Empires had over 47,000 concurrent players on Steam before being removed, so the re-release will help restore access.
- The settlement brings an end to the nearly 2-year legal battle between the companies over alleged code theft.
The conflict arose in late 2021 when Studio Wildcard accused Myth of Empires of building its medieval strategy game using stolen source code from Wildcard’s hit survival title Ark: Survival Evolved. This prompted Myth’s rapid removal from Steam shortly after launch.
Angela Game staunchly denied the allegations and filed a lawsuit demanding that Myth of Empires be reinstated on Steam. Over many months, both sides made escalating accusations and legal filings related to the supposed code theft.
However, in a joint statement today, the studios announced they have agreed to a settlement that involves Studio Wildcard withdrawing its DMCA takedown of Myth of Empires. Additionally, Wildcard will provide assistance for re-releasing Myth of Empires on Steam and other platforms in early 2024.
The settlement marks a drastic reversal after a contentious period of back-and-forth allegations between the firms. In their statement, Angela Game expressed regret for any difficulties caused to Wildcard’s business. Both sides say they look forward to a new collaborative partnership.
Industry analysts say the deal could significantly benefit Myth of Empires, which attracted over 47,000 simultaneous players during its brief availability on Steam. With Studio Wildcard’s resources and connections, Myth may be able to reignite strong audience interest upon its re-release.
The settlement underscores how even the most bitter rivalries in the gaming industry can ultimately lead to reconciliation. While details remain unclear, the move suggests both studios decided that cooperation would better serve their interests than continued legal conflict.
