Tencent's Light of Motiram: Controversial Game Launch on PS5

Tencent, a major player in the gaming industry, has recently stirred up excitement and controversy with its announcement of the upcoming release of Light of Motiram. This open-world survival crafting game is set to launch on multiple platforms, including the PS5, mobile devices, and PC. The game is developed by Polaris Quest, a subsidiary of Tencent based in Shanghai, and is described as a free-to-play experience where "nature meets machine." However, the game has drawn comparisons to Sony's popular Horizon series, raising eyebrows among gamers and industry experts alike.

As reported, Tencent made the announcement through its official accounts on Chinese social media platforms Weibo and Bilibili. The visuals of Light of Motiram have been highlighted as strikingly similar to those found in Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West. Players can expect to encounter robot beasts in a post-apocalyptic world, a hallmark of the Horizon franchise. This resemblance has led some critics to label the game a "rip-off," igniting discussions about originality in the gaming industry.

In a recent seven-minute gameplay video released by Tencent, viewers are treated to a glimpse of the game’s mechanics and aesthetics. The introduction of the video evokes memories of the iconic "wake up, Guardian" moment from Destiny, setting a familiar tone for players. The gameplay itself appears to draw inspiration from various titles, including Monster Hunter and Palworld, the latter of which has faced its own accusations of copying Pokémon.

Players in Light of Motiram will have the opportunity to befriend and raise unique creatures known as "mechanimals." These mechanimals can be utilized for various tasks, such as logging, farming, and crafting, while also serving as mounts for exploration. The game emphasizes survival mechanics, requiring players to establish base camps and manage resources effectively. Tencent has promised that the game will feature hundreds of realistic survival gameplay mechanics, such as the need to carefully cut down trees and ventilate shelters before lighting fires.

While the multiplayer survival aspect of Light of Motiram is not present in the Horizon games, the overall aesthetic and character design bear a striking resemblance. This has led to speculation about whether Tencent's new title may be encroaching on the territory of Guerrilla Games, which is currently developing a multiplayer, live-service version of the Horizon franchise.

The release of Light of Motiram is poised to be a significant event in the gaming world, but it also raises important questions about creativity and inspiration in game development. As players eagerly await its launch, the industry will be watching closely to see how Tencent navigates the fine line between homage and imitation. Ultimately, the success of Light of Motiram will depend not only on its gameplay mechanics but also on its ability to carve out a unique identity in a crowded market.