Poppy Playtime Developer Sues Google Over “Scam” Apps

The Poppy Playtime developer, Mob Entertainment, has taken legal action against Google for allegedly failing to remove misleading apps from the Google Play store. According to legal documents filed by Mob Entertainment, Daigo Game 2020 Inc. has released apps with names like Poppy Playtime: Chapter 3 and Poppy Playtime: Chapter 4 before the official release of these installments for mobile devices. These apps not only use the Poppy Playtime name but also feature characters and screenshots from the authentic game’s second chapter, misleading consumers.

Repeated Attempts to Remove Scam Apps

Despite multiple attempts by Mob Entertainment to contact Google and have the erroneous apps removed, they continue to resurface on the Google Play store shortly after being taken down. The complaint states that these apps do not even offer a copycat or derivative game but instead prompt users to pay up to $95 for a “Guide wuggy playtime mod.” Google allegedly benefits financially from these infringements by receiving a percentage of the proceeds from users who purchase the guide.

Legal Action and Damages Sought

In response to the unauthorized use of their trademarked and copyrighted material, Mob Entertainment is seeking damages in excess of $75,000, all profits from the scam apps, court costs, and $150,000 in damages per infringed work. They also aim to secure an injunction against Google and Daigo to prevent future trademark violations. The court filing alleges that Google’s actions have tarnished Mob Entertainment’s Poppy Playtime mark and caused the company to waste resources trying to address the copyright infringement, trademark violation, and fraud associated with the scam apps.

Industry Response to Misleading Games

This legal action by Mob Entertainment is part of a growing trend among game developers calling out digital stores for not promptly addressing misleading and copyright-infringing games. Game creators have been increasingly vocal about the presence of copycat games on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch eShop and other digital storefronts. The rise of imitation games like Black Myth: Wukong has raised concerns about the need for stricter enforcement of intellectual property rights in the gaming industry.

As game developers continue to fight against misleading apps and copyright infringement, the legal battle between Mob Entertainment and Google sheds light on the challenges faced by creators in protecting their intellectual property in the digital age. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how tech giants like Google handle unauthorized content on their platforms, impacting both developers and consumers alike.