Sony's copyright claims against Bloodborne fan projects are intensifying. Following a DMCA takedown of the popular Bloodborne 60fps mod last week, Lilith Walther, creator of the impressive Bloodborne PSX demake, reported a copyright claim on a YouTube video showcasing her work. The claim originated from MarkScan Enforcement, a company confirmed by modder Lance McDonald to be acting on behalf of Sony Interactive Entertainment – the same entity responsible for the takedown of his 60fps patch.
This aggressive action by Sony has fueled speculation amongst fans. McDonald himself proposed a "copium theory," suggesting Sony's actions are preemptive, clearing the way for an official 60fps remake or remaster by removing competing fan-made content from search results. This would avoid confusion and potential trademark issues should Sony release its own official versions.
The situation highlights the ongoing frustration surrounding Bloodborne's lack of official support on newer platforms. Despite widespread fan demand for a next-gen patch, remaster, or sequel, Sony has remained silent. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida offered a personal theory, suggesting Hidetaka Miyazaki's deep attachment to the original game and his busy schedule prevent him from authorizing any further development or allowing others to work on it.
While Miyazaki has previously acknowledged the benefits of a Bloodborne release on modern hardware, and FromSoftware doesn't own the IP, the game remains untouched nearly a decade after its initial release. The recent advancements in PS4 emulation, offering near-remaster quality at 60fps, may have inadvertently triggered Sony's more assertive copyright enforcement. Whether this signifies a future official release remains to be seen, but the ongoing DMCA activity suggests Sony is actively managing the IP, even in the absence of any official announcements.
