When you talk about Japanese gaming companies, one name that comes to your mind instantly is Square Enix. This long-hailed video game publishing company has surfaced legendary titles like Final Fantasy, NieR, Dragon Quest, and many more.
Besides gaming, this huge company is in the business of merchandise, arcade facilities, and manga publications under its Gangan Comic brand. So, there’s no doubt that this company is one of the most loved ones among the fans. However, a recent blunder caused by this company might turn the table over its head.
There are many dedicated people who devote their lives to their favorite games. The same goes for the creator of Accord’s Library. This website is a fan-made archive that collects works related to Drakengard and NieR. It is a true gem for the fans of those respective games, as it contained some of the rarest assets of those titles along with regular game-related content.
However, things aren’t going to be the same anymore as Square Enix has sent a legal notice to this website, citing its shutdown. This is what the library stated in its Discord server (via GamesRadar):
These past few years have been a pleasure, but we regret to inform you all that we’ve been contacted by the Square Enix Legal Team. And after some private communications, based on the outlined requirements we have come to the conclusion that Accord’s Library must close its doors by the end of the month. While we are sad to have to go, we also must respect the wishes of the Legal Team.
The Japanese company is also going through a rough patch. Amidst this situation, this step by one of the most popular gaming houses is facing huge backlashes from the fans.
According to one fan, Japanese gaming companies like Square Enix, Capcom, Nintendo, and many more are competing with American gaming companies, which generally take up these kinds of measures. Still, Microsoft is another company that isn’t following such a path, as they are not sending any copyright strikes to small YouTubers and communities.
Japanese companies don’t put mass layoffs in their offices, but one critical aspect of them has always been criticized. That is being skeptical about their intellectual property. These gaming houses always show less permissive attitudes towards their products. Accord’s Library started with the goal of “gathering and archiving as much side- material/merch as possible.”
Later on, they went on to create a full-fledged website containing news articles, lores, summaries, translations, and transcriptions regarding titles from famous Japanese game director Yoko Taro, such as Drakengard and NieR. This library will remain open until October 31, 2024. So, rush to their website ASAP until it shuts down permanently to witness some hidden gems of those two games.
What’s your opinion on this skeptical step from Square Enix? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
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