Sony and Tencent reach confidential settlement as Light of Motiram removed from stores

Sony and Tencent agree on confidential settlement, as Light of Motiram no longer listed on Steam or Epic Games Store

Sony and Tencent have reached a confidential settlement that brings an end to their legal dispute over Light of Motiram, a post-apocalyptic open-world game that had been compared to Horizon Zero Dawn. The agreement follows the quiet removal of Light of Motiram from both Steam and the Epic Games Store.

Sony filed a copyright lawsuit against Tencent in a California court at the end of July, describing Light of Motiram as a “slavish” copy of Horizon Zero Dawn.

The complaint highlighted similarities in setting, character design and marketing materials, including screenshots and descriptions used to promote the game.

Both titles are set in post-apocalyptic worlds populated by large robotic creatures roaming natural environments such as forests, deserts and snowy regions.

Sony also pointed to similarities between the protagonists, including their red hair, clothing styles and the use of a device comparable to Aloy’s Focus earpiece.

Sony formally accused Tencent of developing a “knock-off game” and sought a preliminary injunction to prevent pre-release promotion. In response, Tencent updated the Steam page for Light of Motiram, replacing several images, including the cover artwork.

Tencent argued that it was drawing on “well-trodden” genre tropes and claimed Sony’s lawsuit was an overreach. The company stated it was “startling” that Sony was presenting Horizon’s concept as original, suggesting it relied on “ubiquitous genre ingredients” seen in other franchises.

According to court documents filed on December 17, both companies have now agreed to a “confidential settlement”, bringing an end to Sony’s lawsuit and Tencent’s counter-suit. The filings state that each party will cover its own legal fees and costs.

The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed. However, Light of Motiram is no longer accessible on major digital storefronts, with previous listings redirecting to homepage screens. Tencent has not issued an update on the game’s future or release plans.