Bizarre Creations call for more originality amongst indies

Bizarre Creations has followed up its request for the removal of Geometry Wars clones from the Internet with a statement that calls for better intellectual property protection and more originality from developers.

Bizarre released Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved through Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade service on the Xbox 360, and was widely praised for producing such an original concept and unique visuals, sound effects and gameplay.

Various PC 'clones' have appeared on the net, with one specific title - Grid Wars - causing significant concern for the company. Bizarre said it has noted the effect on sales of its original title, plus damage to the brand due to confusion amongst consumers who may not be able to differentiate between the two games.

Following a letter to the creator of Grid Wars on PC, which requested the removal of the game for download and cited IP infringement, Bizarre has clarified its position in a statement, which reads: "The issue that we have with the proliferation of GW: RE 'clone' games is their own lack of originality - particularly on the visual front.

"This potentially takes sales away from our product and weakens our brand - especially if-and-when we decide to launch a version of GW: RE on a platform where a clone is already available."

Whilst there has been no confirmation of a Geometry Wars game appearing on alternative platforms, Bizarre is keen to protect its IP, stressing the importance of retaining originality in the videogames industry.

"The fact is that GW: RE IS our Intellectual Property. The game was created as an entirely original product, and as a package, bears no relevant similarity to any pre-existing title," the statement continues.

"It's unfortunate also that, at the moment, if you don't have a 360, we're afraid that you can't play Geometry Wars. But this still does not provide a legitimate argument to condone the game being blatantly copied and effectively passing itself off as our original."

To date, Bizarre has not suggested that it may take legal action. However, it seems that the company is not planning to let this one go, which means more serious steps could well be taken.