Managing Inappropriate Fan Art: Dead or Alive Publisher Requests 2,000-3,000 Takedowns Annually

It’s a tale as old as time—well, at least as old as the release of the first beach volleyball spin-off in the Dead or Alive series. Once taken seriously as fighting games, the franchise now seems to be drowning in a sea of bikini, maid, and schoolgirl costumes as DLC. But behind the scenes, a battle is being fought to protect the image of the Dead or Alive cast from inappropriate fan art.

At a panel on intellectual property rights at Tokyo Esports Festa, Tomotoshi Nishimura, the executive in charge of Koei Tecmo’s legal affairs division, revealed the shocking truth. The company is forced to take action against fan art that could potentially harm the characters’ image, likening them to “daughters.” While the specific Japanese word used, musume, can mean both “young girl” and “daughter,” the implications are still unsettling in this context.

The Legal Battle

Nishimura explained that Koei Tecmo, despite its appreciation for fans and sponsorship of events like Comiket, has to suspend between 200 and 300 Dead or Alive doujinshi available online each year due to legal violations. Additionally, the company takes down a staggering 2,000 to 3,000 works of fan art from platforms like Pixiv and social media annually.

Protecting the Image

The rationale behind these actions, according to Nishimura, is to safeguard the characters’ image, especially considering the production of official merchandise by other companies. This concern extends to adult-themed fan art that could tarnish the virtuous reputation of the Dead or Alive protagonists. Despite the company’s efforts, unauthorized use of game assets, like nude mods, continues to pose a challenge.

Future of the Franchise

As Koei Tecmo navigates the treacherous waters of intellectual property protection, the upcoming release of Dead or Alive Xtreme: Venus Vacation Prism—a dating sim with a photography mode—suggests a shift towards a different direction for the series. With a limited release in select Asian countries, the game aims to explore new avenues for fan engagement while preserving the integrity of the brand.

As we delve into the complexities of managing fan art and intellectual property, it’s essential to remember the dedicated individuals like Jody, whose passion for gaming transcends generations. From his humble beginnings with a Commodore 64 to his insightful contributions to PC Gamer, Jody’s journey exemplifies the enduring allure of the gaming industry. Through his diverse experiences and engaging storytelling, Jody invites us to explore the multifaceted world of video games with a blend of nostalgia and enthusiasm. So, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of gaming culture, let’s heed Jody’s wisdom and embrace the transformative power of interactive entertainment.