Wizards of the Coast DMCA Targets Fan's Baldur's Gate 3 Mod, Larian CEO Reacts

Wizards of the Coast has recently issued a DMCA takedown notice against a fan-made mod for Stardew Valley titled "Baldur's Village," which integrates characters from Baldur's Gate 3 into the popular farming simulation game. This action came shortly after the mod's release earlier this month, despite it receiving public praise from Larian Studios CEO Sven Vincke, who lauded the mod's creators on Twitter for their dedication and craftsmanship.

The mod's removal was reported by PC Gamer, with a spokesperson from Nexus Mods expressing hope that the takedown was an oversight by Wizards of the Coast, who often rely on external agencies to monitor IP violations. The spokesperson suggested that the decision might be reversed, indicating a desire for the mod's return.

In response to the takedown, Vincke took to Twitter again to voice his support for the mod while acknowledging the complexities of IP protection. He emphasized the value of fan mods as a testament to the resonance of the original work and a form of non-commercial promotion. "Free quality fan mods highlighting your characters in other game genres are proof your work resonates and a unique form of word of mouth," Vincke stated, advocating for a more lenient approach toward such creations.

This incident might be part of a broader strategy by Wizards of the Coast to protect the Baldur's Gate IP, especially in light of upcoming announcements about the franchise's future, as hinted at during the Game Developers Conference. However, it's also possible that the takedown was a mistake that could be quickly corrected. Wizards of the Coast has been contacted for further comment on the situation.