Games

Square Enix sues HK TEN TREE LIMITED for copyright infringement regarding Mecharashi

BBG News

Story Highlights

  • Square Enix alleges that TenTree Games continued to use Front Mission’s IP and other assets without proper authorization.
  • Square Enix seeks a jury trial, damages, Ten Tree’s profits, $150,000 per violation, legal reimbursements, and injunctive relief to stop further infringement.
  • They also provided infringement images and suspects TenTree Games’ team includes former Front Mission 2089: Borderscape developers.

The gaming company, Square Enix, has taken legal action against the creator of the strategic RPG game, Mecharashi, which is developed by HK TEN TREE LIMITED (also known as TenTree Games). The lawsuit claims that the game infringes upon the copyright of their popular Front Mission series.

In October 2024, TenTree Games unveiled Metal Storm (previously known as Mecharashi) in Japan, and global pre-registration for the game opened on February 22, 2025. The worldwide release of this action-packed title is scheduled for June 20, 2025, making it available on both mobile and PC platforms.

Square Enix claims TenTree Games has infringed on the Front Mission IP for Mecharashi

The rapidly evolving world of mobile gaming remains embroiled in debates, and a significant turn of events has unfolded. Specifically, Square Enix has taken legal action, alleging copyright infringement, against HK TEN TREE LIMITED, the creators of Mecharashi. Interestingly, this game was initially conceived under Square Enix’s guidance as part of Front Mission 2089: Borderscape.

Subsequently, Square Enix ended their contract with Zlong Games and their affiliate BlackJack Studio, effectively cancelling the project only six months following its unveiling.

or simply:
Square Enix terminated their deal with Zlong Games and BlackJack Studio, halting the project six months after its announcement.

Even after their separation, Square Enix alleges that TenTree Games illegally utilized Front Mission’s intellectual property (IP) and other assets. They assert that TenTree Games adapted Mecharashi while preserving crucial aspects, designs, and distinctive elements reminiscent of the Front Mission game.

Square Enix initially issued a formal demand later, but TenTree Games didn’t fully comply

In December 2024, Square Enix sent a formal notice to TenTree Games, asking them to take down copyrighted material and promising not to repeat the infringement in the future. At first, TenTree Games consented, but they failed to completely remove the copyrighted content and provide written guarantees.

In response, Square Enix took stronger action in February 2025 by issuing Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) removal requests to Valve, Apple, and Google, asking them to take down Metal Storm (Mecharishi). However, TenTree Games disputed the takedown.

Square Enix is seeking damages, along with various reimbursements, and additional remedies

In response to no remaining alternatives, Square Enix initiated two lawsuits – one in the Tokyo District Court on March 4, 2025, and another in an American court on March 13, 2025. These actions were taken due to alleged copyright violations. Currently, they are requesting a trial by jury and claiming compensation, including any profits made by Ten Tree (with the exact figures yet to be disclosed).

They’re asking for a potential penalty of $150,000 per copyright breach, along with recovery of lawyers’ expenses, full coverage of all legal costs, and several court orders (injunctions) to stop future infringements by TenTree Games.

In the ongoing court case, it seems likely that the decision will carry significant future consequences for both parties, as neither side appears willing to yield. On a personal level, I find myself siding with Square Enix due to the storied history and pedigree of the Front Mission series.

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2025-03-19 19:41

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