Bloodborne PSX Demake Faces Copyright Claim; 60fps Mod Creator Offers 'Copium' Remake Theory

The Bloodborne PSX demake, a fan project that reimagines the classic game in a retro style, has recently encountered a copyright claim, following in the footsteps of the Bloodborne 60fps mod which was also hit with a takedown last week. Lance McDonald, the creator of the well-known Bloodborne 60fps mod, disclosed that he received a DMCA notice from Sony Interactive Entertainment, requiring him to remove all links to his patch online. This action came four years after the mod's initial release.

Lilith Walther, the mastermind behind Nightmare Kart (formerly Bloodborne Kart) and the visually striking Bloodborne PSX demake, took to Twitter to announce that a YouTube video showcasing the demake had been subjected to a copyright claim by MarkScan Enforcement. McDonald further clarified that MarkScan is a company employed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the same entity responsible for the takedown of his 60fps patch page.

The situation has sparked confusion and speculation among fans, with McDonald questioning the motives behind these aggressive moves by Sony. Bloodborne, developed by FromSoftware, has been a beloved title since its launch on the PS4, garnering both critical and commercial success. However, despite fan demand for enhancements such as a next-gen patch to boost the frame rate to 60fps, or even a remaster or sequel, Sony has remained silent on the matter.

Recent advancements in PS4 emulation, highlighted by Digital Foundry's coverage of the "breakthrough" via ShadPS4, have allowed players to experience Bloodborne at 60fps on PC, possibly prompting Sony's response. IGN has reached out to Sony for comment, but as of now, there has been no response.

In the midst of these developments, McDonald proposed a "copium theory," suggesting that Sony might be preparing to announce an official 60fps remake. He speculated that the takedowns could be part of a strategy to clear search engine results for terms like "bloodborne 60fps" and "Bloodborne remake," potentially to avoid conflicts with fan projects when Sony makes its announcement.

Despite these aggressive actions, there has been no official indication from Sony about revisiting Bloodborne. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida shared his personal theory in an interview with Kinda Funny Games, suggesting that FromSoftware's director Hidetaka Miyazaki might be hesitant to allow anyone else to work on Bloodborne due to his deep personal connection to the project.

As it stands, nearly a decade after its initial release, Bloodborne remains untouched by official updates or sequels. However, Miyazaki has acknowledged that the game could benefit from being released on more modern hardware, hinting at potential future possibilities.