As the Bloodborne PSX Demake Becomes the Latest Fan-Project to Suffer a Copyright Claim, the Creator of Bloodborne's 60fps Mod Has Offered His ‘Copium’ Official Remake Theory

The Bloodborne PSX demake, a fan-made project, is the latest to face a copyright claim from Sony Interactive Entertainment, following last week's takedown of the Bloodborne 60fps mod. Lance McDonald, creator of the 60fps mod, confirmed receiving a takedown notice four years after its release, prompting him to remove online links. Lilith Walther, creator of the Bloodborne PSX demake and Nightmare Kart (formerly Bloodborne Kart), reported a copyright claim by MarkScan Enforcement on a YouTube video showcasing the demake. McDonald revealed MarkScan, the company issuing the claims, is employed by Sony and was also responsible for the DMCA takedown of his 60fps patch. He expressed bewilderment at Sony's actions, questioning their motives.

Bloodborne's continued absence from the next-gen market is a significant point of contention among fans. While the game enjoyed critical and commercial success on PS4, Sony has yet to release an official next-gen patch, remaster, or sequel, despite widespread fan demand for a 60fps update. Recent advancements in PS4 emulation, showcased by Digital Foundry's video highlighting ShadPS4's ability to deliver a near-remaster experience at 60fps on PC, may have spurred Sony's aggressive response. Sony has not yet commented on this speculation.

McDonald proposed a theory, suggesting Sony's DMCA actions aim to clear the search results for "Bloodborne 60fps" and "Bloodborne remake" before announcing an official 60fps remake or remaster, potentially to secure trademark rights. However, Sony has provided no official indication of future Bloodborne projects. Former PlayStation executive Shuhei Yoshida offered his perspective, suggesting that Hidetaka Miyazaki's deep personal attachment to Bloodborne and his busy schedule prevent him from overseeing a remaster or update, and that PlayStation respects his wishes.

Despite Miyazaki's frequent deflection of Bloodborne questions in interviews, citing FromSoftware's lack of IP ownership, he acknowledged in February 2023 that the game would benefit from a release on modern hardware. Bloodborne remains dormant nearly a decade after its initial release, leaving fans hopeful but uncertain about the future of this beloved title.