Comprehensive IP Protections Underpin Success of Black Myth: Wukong Online Game

Black Myth: Wukong launched on 20 August 2024 and rapidly became one of the fastest-selling video games worldwide. Drawing inspiration from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, the game centers on the iconic character Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. Its commercial success underscores the importance of a well-structured intellectual property (IP) strategy in the competitive online gaming sector.

Copyright protection forms the foundation of the game’s IP portfolio. This protection automatically applies to original works fixed in tangible form, including the game’s source code, visual assets such as user interfaces, character designs, costumes, environments, and textures, as well as audio elements like music and sound effects. Narrative components, including dialogue and storyline, also fall under copyright safeguards.

To enhance legal enforceability, the producers of Black Myth: Wukong registered the game software for copyright on 20 January 2023. This registration secures the game’s underlying code against unauthorized use. While specific details on copyright registrations for the game’s music and literary elements have not been publicly disclosed, it is anticipated these protections follow a similar registration path.

Beyond the game itself, promotional materials such as videos and gameplay demonstrations have been registered as audiovisual works. This step secures neighbouring rights, further protecting the game’s marketing content and visual presentation.

Trademark protection plays a pivotal role in maintaining brand identity. The producer has registered trademarks covering the game’s name, logos, character names, and other distinctive identifiers. These trademarks span all 45 classes of goods and services, reflecting a comprehensive approach to brand protection. Notably, the producer also sought to trademark the game’s release date, an unusual but strategic move to reinforce brand exclusivity on a global scale.

Patent protection, while more limited in scope, remains an important consideration. Various aspects of online games can be patented, including hardware devices, gameplay mechanics, software algorithms, and user interface (UI) elements. In 2016, the producer filed multiple patent applications, such as CN201610122396.6, titled “A recommendation method and server in respect of an online game.” Although these applications were ultimately refused or withdrawn, the attempt highlights the strategic value of patents in gaming innovation.

It is important to note that China’s Patent Law excludes certain online game elements from patentability. These exclusions cover screen wallpapers, start-up and shutdown screens, and webpage layouts that do not relate to human-computer interaction or specific computer game methods.

The Black Myth: Wukong case illustrates how layered IP protections—copyrights, trademarks, patents, and neighbouring rights—work together to safeguard a game’s creative content, brand identity, and technological innovations. Such a robust IP framework is essential for protecting revenue streams and maintaining competitive advantage in the global gaming market.

For developers and producers seeking to protect their online games internationally, expert legal guidance is crucial. Lawdit Solicitors offers specialised advice on navigating IP registrations and enforcement strategies tailored to the gaming industry.

For further information on intellectual property protection for online games, contact Lawdit Solicitors at info@lawdit.co.uk.