+6434740025 154 Glenpark Avenue, Maryhill, Dunedin 9011, New Zealand 08 AM - 10 PM

DMCA Copyright Policy – The Game

At The Game, we are fully committed to respecting and protecting intellectual property rights in accordance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). As a platform dedicated to the world of video games—covering topics such as gameplay, reviews, walkthroughs, mods, user-generated content, fan art, and more—we take copyright infringement seriously. We expect all users, contributors, and visitors to understand and comply with this policy when using our services.

Video games are complex intellectual properties. They include unique graphics, soundtracks, narrative scripts, game mechanics, source code, and voiceovers. In addition, fan-created content—such as gameplay videos, mods, character redesigns, and reviews—has become an essential part of the community but must be shared and distributed responsibly. This policy serves as a guide for copyright holders who wish to report unauthorized use of their protected content, and for users who want to understand their rights and responsibilities regarding copyrighted material.

1. Understanding Copyright in the Video Game Industry

Video games are protected works of art and technology. They contain original programming code, graphic design, character development, musical compositions, sound effects, and voice acting—all of which are protected under national and international copyright laws. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this content may constitute copyright infringement.

It is essential for users to understand that even seemingly minor uses—such as uploading raw gameplay footage without commentary or redistributing in-game assets—may violate copyright law unless specific permissions have been granted by the original rights holder or unless the use qualifies under exceptions like fair use. The presence of copyrighted material without transformative elements or proper licenses can result in takedown actions.

2. Submitting a DMCA Takedown Notice

If you believe that your copyrighted content has been used or shared on our platform without your permission, you may submit a formal DMCA takedown notice. Such notice must be submitted in writing and include the following components to be valid:

  • Your physical or electronic signature, or that of an authorized representative.
  • A clear identification of the copyrighted work that has allegedly been infringed.
  • The exact location of the infringing material on our site or services.
  • Sufficient information for us to contact you, including your name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address.
  • A statement that you have a good faith belief that the use of the material is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law.
  • A statement under penalty of perjury that the information provided is accurate and that you are the copyright owner or authorized to act on behalf of the owner.

Once a valid notice is received, we will take prompt action to remove or disable access to the allegedly infringing content. We may also notify the party responsible for the content, informing them of the takedown and their rights under the DMCA.

3. Responding to a DMCA Notice (Counter-Notification)

If you are a user whose content was removed due to a DMCA notice and you believe this removal was in error or a case of misidentification, you may submit a counter-notification. This must include:

  • Your name, address, and contact information.
  • A description of the material that was removed and its location prior to removal.
  • A sworn statement, under penalty of perjury, that you believe the content was removed by mistake or misidentification.
  • A statement that you consent to the jurisdiction of the federal court in your district and agree to accept service of process from the party who submitted the original notice.
  • Your physical or electronic signature.

If we receive a valid counter-notification, we may restore the content in 10–14 business days unless the original complainant initiates legal proceedings.

4. Repeat Infringer Policy

We maintain a strict policy regarding repeat infringers. Any user who repeatedly uploads or shares copyrighted content without proper authorization may be subject to escalating consequences. This can include:

  • Temporary or permanent suspension of their account.
  • Restriction of access to uploading or commenting features.
  • Legal reporting, if deemed appropriate.

This policy exists to protect the rights of creators, studios, developers, musicians, and other professionals in the gaming industry.

5. What Constitutes Infringing Content in Video Games?

Examples of potentially infringing content related to video games may include, but are not limited to:

  • Uploading full-length gameplay videos with no commentary or transformation.
  • Distributing game files, cracked software, or key generators.
  • Using copyrighted soundtracks or voice clips from a game in other media without permission.
  • Sharing fan-made content that reproduces game assets or storylines too closely to the original without adding significant new meaning or value.
  • Publishing walkthroughs or cheat codes that are embedded within protected code or environments without permission.

Creators must ensure their content is either original, properly licensed, or legally permitted through doctrines like fair use, parody, critique, or education. Even then, fair use is a legal defense and not a guaranteed protection.

6. Encouraging Fair Use and Responsible Creativity

We support the vibrant creative community surrounding video games. Content like fan art, reviews, parodies, machinima, guides, and transformative gameplay videos contributes greatly to the popularity and cultural impact of modern games. However, creators must remain responsible when using third-party content.

Consider these principles before uploading content:

  • Is the material transformed with original commentary, critique, or education?
  • Are you using only the amount of copyrighted content necessary to make your point?
  • Does your use of the material compete with or replace the original product?
  • Have you added enough original material to make your work independently valuable?

If your answer to any of these questions is unclear, it is advisable to seek permission or avoid using the material.

7. False Claims and Legal Risks

Submitting a false DMCA notice or counter-notice can have serious legal consequences. Anyone who knowingly misrepresents that material is infringing, or was wrongly removed, can be held liable for damages, including costs and attorney’s fees. All parties should act in good faith when submitting claims under the DMCA.

8. Designated Agent Contact

To send a DMCA takedown notice or counter-notice, please contact our Designated Copyright Agent with the required information outlined above.

Copyright Agent:
The Game
154 Glenpark Avenue, Maryhill, Dunedin 9011, New Zealand
[email protected]
+6434740025

Please allow a reasonable time for processing. We evaluate every claim individually and act in accordance with the law and platform policy.

9. Final Note

We are dedicated to maintaining a safe, fair, and legally compliant platform for video game fans, creators, developers, and communities. We encourage respectful engagement, transformative creativity, and proper acknowledgment of original rights. By understanding and following this DMCA policy, you help build a stronger and more respectful gaming culture for everyone.