Popular iOS Game Allegedly Steals HTML5 Code
The Case of Copycat Games: Spotlight on "My Baby or Not!"
Background of the Issue
Recently, a game titled My Baby or Not! has gained attention for being a copy of the original game called Diapers, Please!. The developers, VoltekPlay, first noticed a sudden increase in visitors to their game page on itch.io. Most of this traffic was generated from Google searches, sparking their curiosity about where these players were finding their game. After adding a poll asking players how they discovered them, it became clear that the traffic was coming from viral TikTok videos promoting the game.
Despite this, many players were mistakenly led to download the copycat version on the App Store, rather than the original game. VoltekPlay highlighted that although some TikTok comments correctly referred to their game’s name, a significant number of players still ended up purchasing the wrong game.
The Rise of a Copycat
Shortly after its release, My Baby or Not! gained momentum on Apple’s iOS platform. Priced at $2.99, it quickly climbed the paid games charts, attracting roughly 20,000 downloads according to statistics from Sensor Tower. This rapid rise stirred controversy, particularly among those who recognized it as an imitation of an existing game.
Who is Marwane Benyssef?
The App Store listed My Baby or Not! under the name Marwane Benyssef, who is a relatively unknown figure in the gaming community. His previous title, Kiosk Food Night Shift, also appeared to be a blatant copy of another game available on itch.io. This pattern raised questions about the integrity of game development practices among new developers like Benyssef.
The Reaction from VoltekPlay
In response to the situation, VoltekPlay reached out to Apple by filming a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) claim against My Baby or Not!. They shared their disappointment regarding Apple’s approach, as the company advised the parties involved to sort out the issue independently. Additionally, they reported that Apple communicated this claim directly to Benyssef.
Interestingly, VoltekPlay has not only been concerned about the immediate financial implications of losing potential revenue but also the principle of copyright in the gaming industry. They have highlighted that copying another developer’s hard work undermines creativity and hard work within the gaming sector.
Apple’s Actions and Further Developments
As of this morning, there were noticeable changes on the App Store. Apple’s developer page featuring Benyssef and all of his games appeared to have been removed completely. This prompted discussions in gaming forums about Apple’s responsibility to prevent such situations where games are copied and sold without credit to the original creators.
The Broader Implications of Game Theft
The incidents involving My Baby or Not! and similar cases emphasize the ongoing challenge of intellectual property theft in the gaming industry. Developers invest significant time and resources into creating unique and engaging experiences—only to have these efforts compromised by imitators in the industry.
For players, it is crucial to distinguish between original games and copies. When purchasing games, especially on mobile platforms like the App Store, consumers should look for credible reviews and player feedback to ensure they are supporting original creators.
Encouraging Positive Practices in Game Development
This situation serves as a reminder that integrity in game development matters tremendously. Players are increasingly looking for authentic experiences, and developers who take shortcuts risk damaging their reputations. The gaming community benefits greatly from encouraging creativity, where unique games flourish without fear of being stolen.
While copycat games may appear to have short-term success due to misleading marketing tactics, they lack the genuine appeal that players seek. True gamers appreciate innovation and originality in the games they choose, creating a supportive ecosystem for original developers.
How to Support Original Developers
For those who are passionate about gaming and want to support real creators, here are some tips:
- Research Before You Purchase: Look up gameplay videos and reviews of a game you are interested in before buying it.
- Check Developer Credentials: Investigate the history of the developer. Established developers with a good reputation are more likely to deliver quality content.
- Share Your Feedback: If you recognize a game as original, leave a review to help promote it and warn others about any fraudulent copies.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in discussions in gaming forums or social media to spread the word about great original games.
By promoting originality in gaming, players can help foster a healthy and innovative gaming environment where new ideas can thrive.
