The survival MMO Myth of Empire initially launched quite successfully on Steam. However, it has not been found there for several days. There is an investigation for copyright infringement, and now we know who is behind it: developer Studio Wildcard from the big survival game ARK: Survival Evolved.
What happened? The survival MMO is currently in early access on Steam and was able to attract thousands of players in the first weeks and gather numerous positive reviews.
However, since the past weekend, it has been unavailable due to an investigation by Steam. The accusation: copyright infringement. However, we did not know until now who made the accusation and what exactly was behind it.
Now the copyright holder has made a statement regarding what exactly the accusation is. The investigation is being conducted by publisher Snail Games and developer Studio Wildcard, which is responsible for ARK: Survival Evolved. Allegedly, Myth of Empires stole from them.
Myth of Empires alleged to have stolen code – What’s behind it?
These are the allegations: In a statement it is said that Angela Games, the developer behind Myth of Empires, improperly used the source code of ARK: Survival Evolved as a basis for their survival MMO.
There are some details on how this alleged theft occurred. Apparently, key developers of Myth of Empires previously worked for Snail Games’ Chinese parent company and thus had access to the source code of ARK.
The statement says:
Studio Wildcard and Snail Games USA Inc. are in good faith convinced that Myth of Empires was developed by: (1) stealing the source code from Ark: Survival Evolved and (2) using the stolen source code as the basis for the game Myth of Empires. […] Key staff of the developer of Myth of Empires worked at the Chinese parent company of Snail Games USA Inc. and at least one of them had the credentials that allowed them to access the source code of Ark: Survival Evolved.
via PCGames.com
Additionally, it is stated that several developers from Studio Wildcard found several nearly identical game mechanics and other indications in the game’s code pointing to the theft.
The results of the investigation were submitted by the studio to Valve on December 1st, shortly after which Myth of Empires disappeared from Steam.
What does the developer say about this? Angela Games has not directly commented on the allegations from Studio Wildcard so far. Previously, there was already a statement claiming that the accusations were unfounded and that they would do everything to refute them. You can read the statement on MeinMMO.
We have requested a statement from the responsible PR and are waiting for an official statement.
What happens next? It remains to be seen what the investigations by Valve will reveal and who will ultimately be vindicated. Until then, it is also difficult to foresee what consequences might arise if the accusations are confirmed.
We will keep you updated on the topic as always.
What is Myth of Empires actually? It is an open-world game for PC that strongly resembles games like ARK or Conan Exiles and has a combat system that is more reminiscent of hardcore games like Mordhau and Mount & Blade.
You create your own character and explore a game world that strongly resembles ancient China. According to the developers, the setting is meant to be “realistic and historical” without many fantasy elements.
Here are some of the features:
- PvE and PvP modes
- Large sieges
- Free development of areas with settlements and fortresses
- NPC companions that assist you in battle
- Comprehensive crafting system
As is customary in survival games, you start with your character in any area and get right to the first tasks.
The initial activities introduce you to the mechanics and various systems, until you gradually tackle increasingly challenging tasks.
Are you interested in survival games? Check out gameplay of 5 new survival games that you can look forward to in 2021 and 2022
