Blizzard sues creators of StarCraft II cheat

Blizzard has filed suit against the unknown creators of the ValiantChaos MapHack cheat. According to the developers, the cheat ruins the game, which would lead to a drop in sales. Blizzard also accuses the creators of copyright infringement.

The ValiantChaos MapHack gives players the opportunity to cheat by, among other things, unnoticed by viewing the entire map, automatically creating units and giving themselves achievements. The makers have been selling the cheat for $60 for years. With this they violate the terms and conditions, claims Blizzard.

The lawsuit filed in California federal court and referenced by Torrentfreak states that the creators “make and sell their pirated software product with the knowledge that they are facilitating and promoting infringement of Blizzard’s copyrights, that they are breaking the agreement with Blizzard.” and otherwise violate Blizzard’s rights.” The cheat is said to affect the sales and gaming experience of regular players, as ValiantChaos MapHack makes those players dissatisfied. They would lose interest in the game and also let the outside world know, Blizzard writes in the complaint.

The developer is requesting a sales and distribution ban and compensation. Since the makers are anonymous, the chance that Blizzard will actually receive compensation is small, but a ban may make further distribution more difficult.