CLONING IN THE VIDEO GAME INDUSTRY : A literature review

Abstract: Video game cloning is controversial within the industry, both because copyright laws do not protect game mechanics, and because people’s judgements about game cloning are unclear. Therefore, this study aims to examine the current literature related to game cloning and summarise the impact of cloning on the game industry, as well as the challenges faced by developers. A literature review approach was used in this study. The results suggest that game cloning has benefits for market competition and learning on the one hand and may be financially harmful to small studios on the other hand. A key point in determining whether game cloning is unacceptable is the motivation of the cloners. Furthermore, unofficial regulation, such as digital distribution platforms and communities, is an important means of combating game cloning.