Bloodborne PSX Demake Faces Copyright Claim; Modder Offers Remake Theory

The Bloodborne PSX demake, a fan-made project, is the latest to face a copyright claim from Sony Interactive Entertainment. This follows last week's takedown of the popular Bloodborne 60fps mod by creator Lance McDonald. McDonald received a DMCA notice from Sony, requesting the removal of links to his patch, four years after its release.

Lilith Walther, creator of the Bloodborne PSX demake and Nightmare Kart (formerly Bloodborne Kart), reported that a YouTube video showcasing the demake received a copyright claim from MarkScan Enforcement, a company confirmed by McDonald to be acting on behalf of Sony. This is the same company that issued the DMCA for his 60fps patch. McDonald expressed bewilderment at Sony's actions, questioning their motives.

Bloodborne's continued absence from the modern gaming landscape is a significant point of contention among fans. Despite its critical and commercial success on PS4, Sony hasn't released a next-gen patch, remaster, or sequel. Recent advancements in PS4 emulation, notably ShadPS4, allow for near-remaster quality gameplay at 60fps on PC. This breakthrough has prompted speculation regarding Sony's aggressive response to fan projects. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment.

McDonald theorizes that Sony's DMCA actions are a preemptive move to clear the way for an official 60fps remake, suggesting that it aims to secure trademarks for phrases like "Bloodborne 60fps" and "Bloodborne remake" before its official release.

Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida offered his perspective, suggesting that Hidetaka Miyazaki's personal attachment to Bloodborne and his desire for creative control might be hindering any official updates or remasters. Yoshida emphasized that this is merely his theory and not based on inside information.

Despite Miyazaki's previous statements about FromSoftware not owning the IP and his acknowledgment of Bloodborne's suitability for modern hardware, the game remains dormant nearly a decade after its initial release. The situation leaves fans hopeful, yet uncertain, about the future of Bloodborne.