Sega Corporation has filed a lawsuit against Bank of Innovation, the Japanese developer behind the popular idle mobile RPG Memento Mori. The lawsuit seeks ¥1 billion (approximately USD$6.63 million) in damages and an injunction against the game and related content.
Key Points:
– Sega files lawsuit against Bank of Innovation, developer of Memento Mori.
– Alleged patent infringements concern five Sega-held patents.
– Sega seeks ¥1 billion in damages and injunction against Memento Mori.
– Bank of Innovation denies infringement, vows to defend itself.
– Dispute follows failed negotiations between Sega and Bank of Innovation.
Alleged Patent Infringements
Sega alleges that Bank of Innovation’s titles, including Memento Mori, infringe on five patents registered in Japan. These patents relate to gacha game mechanics, a common feature in mobile RPGs. Analyst Serkan Toto notes that one patent specifically concerns character card fusion.
Bank of Innovation’s Response
Bank of Innovation denies any infringement and plans to defend itself. Despite the lawsuit, the company will continue to operate Memento Mori. However, the news has already impacted Bank of Innovation’s stock, which dropped 18% since the announcement.
Industry Implications
Sega’s lawsuit highlights growing concerns over patent control in the gaming industry. This is the second major Japanese company to sue for patent infringement recently, following The Pokémon Company’s lawsuit against Pocketpair. The outcome of this lawsuit may have significant implications for game developers using similar mechanics.
Memento Mori Background
Released in 2022, Memento Mori is an idle mobile RPG praised for its beautiful art and music. Players take on the role of a Lord helping Witches with special powers escape a Witch Hunt. The game features Live 2D concerts with songs performed by famous Japanese singers.
Ongoing Dispute
Sega and Bank of Innovation have been in discussions, but failed to reach an agreement. The lawsuit’s outcome remains uncertain, with Bank of Innovation committed to defending itself and continuing Memento Mori’s operations
Patent Dispute
The patents in question, including Japanese Patent No. 5930111, cover mechanisms designed to alleviate psychological issues associated with low drop rates in gacha-style games. Bank of Innovation maintains that negotiations with Sega broke down, leading to the lawsuit.
Impact
Dr. Toto warns that the potential ¥1 billion in damages would significantly impact Bank of Innovation, given its status as a small studio. As the gaming industry watches this case unfold, many are left wondering if Sega’s actions will set a precedent for future patent disputes between Japanese game developers.