As creativity and technology become ever more deeply intertwined, the gaming industry—one of the brightest stars of the digital economy—faces an increasingly urgent need for robust intellectual property (IP) protection. Centered on the “Shenzhen Jiumou Technology Co., Ltd. Hainan IP Infringement Case,” this article offers an in-depth analysis of the cause of action, factual background, key legal issues, damages, and the court’s decision, providing practical IP protection insights for game companies.

I. Case Overview and Background

Cause of action:Disputes over intellectual property infringement and unfair competition

Plaintiff:Shenzhen Jiumou Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter “Jiumou Technology”)

Defendants:A number of entities and individuals, including a Hainan-based technology company (specific names as stated in the judgment)

Background:As an innovation-driven player in the gaming industry, Jiumou Technology invested heavily in developing multiple popular games. However, as the market expanded, its IP faced serious challenges. The defendants, including a Hainan technology company, were accused of using Jiumou Technology’s core game elements, UI/UX design, and even overall structure without authorization—rapidly launching highly similar games through “reskinning” tactics. Such conduct allegedly infringed Jiumou Technology’s IP rights and constituted unfair competition.

II. Key Legal Issues in Dispute

1) Copyright Infringement Determination

Core dispute:Did the defendants’ games amount to substantial copying of JiumouTechnology’s copyrighted works?

Court’s view:The court conducted a detailed comparison of the specific content of both games and noted that, while similarities existed, the crucial question was whether those similarities rose to the level of protected “expression” under copyright law. Ultimately, the court did not directly find copyright infringement. It emphasized that similarities in abstract aspects such as gameplay, rules, or mechanics generally do not constitute copyright infringement, whereas concrete expressions—such as art assets and visual design, and the layout of the user interface—are protected by law.

2) Unfair Competition Determination

Core dispute:Did the defendants’ conduct violate the principles of good faith and business ethics, thereby constituting unfair competition?

Court’s view:The court held that the defendants’ “reskinning” approach took advantage of the plaintiff’s game reputation and user base to seize market share quickly. This behavior clearly violated principles of fair competition and harmed Jiumou Technology’s legitimate rights and interests, and therefore constituted unfair competition.

III. Damages and Judgment Outcome

Damages:

After trial, the court took into account the nature and circumstances of the infringing conduct, its duration, and Jiumou Technology’s actual losses, among other factors. It ultimately ordered the defendants to pay several million RMB in total damages, including economic losses and reasonable enforcement costs. Although the exact figure is not specified in this overview, the award reflects the court’s strong stance against IP violations.

Judgment outcome included:

The defendants were ordered to immediately cease the infringing acts, including but not limited to stopping the production, sale, and operation of the infringing games.

The defendants were required to issue a public apology to eliminate adverse effects.

The defendants were ordered to compensate Jiumou Technology for economic losses and reasonable enforcement expenses.

IV. Deeper Analysis and Practical Takeaways

1) The Critical Role of IP Protection

This case once again highlights the central importance of IP protection in the gaming industry. Developing original games requires significant capital investment and intellectual labor, and IP rights serve as essential legal tools for safeguarding those investments and creative成果.

2) The Legal Risks Behind “Reskin” Games

While “reskin” games may help companies enter the market quickly, they carry substantial legal risk. Once such conduct is found to constitute unfair competition or copyright infringement, the consequences can be severe—ranging from heavy monetary damages to reputational harm.

3) The Need for a Comprehensive Protection Strategy

Game companies should build an end-to-end IP protection system, including copyright registration, trademark filings, and patent applications where applicable. At the same time, they should strengthen market monitoring and enforcement capabilities to identify and act against infringing behavior promptly.

On the road to stronger IP protection, the Kangxin IP Platform, backed by professional services and powerful technology, can serve as a valuable partner for game companies. Key capabilities include:

Smart monitoring:** AI-enabled tracking of the market with precise early-warning alerts for infringement risks.

Full-chain services: One-stop IP asset management from filing to enforcement.

Legal enforcement support: Collaboration with professional law firms to provide efficient, cost-effective enforcement solutions.

Global protection: Helping game companies expand overseas and enhance international competitiveness.

The “Shenzhen Jiumou Technology Co., Ltd. Hainan IP Infringement Case” not only serves as a wake-up call for game companies, but also offers valuable legal lessons and strategic guidance for the industry as a whole. In an era driven by both creativity and technology, game companies should place greater emphasis on IP protection—leveraging professional tools such as the Kangxin IP Platform to build a strong IP defense line and support long-term growth.