Byterunners, the developer of Drug Dealer Simulator (DDS), has accused publisher Movie Games of withholding profits from console sales of both DDS1 and DDS2, amid an ongoing contractual dispute. The conflict began after Movie Games launched an 'investigation' in April 2023, exploring similarities with another game, Schedule 1.
Contract Dispute Details
The main issue centers around the console ports of DDS1 and DDS2. Byterunners, represented by Rafał Pęcherzewski, claims that they have not received due profits unless they agree to new production plans. While Byterunners doesn't dispute the rights transfer to Movie Games, they argue the contract specifically mentioned PlayStation 4 and Xbox One but not the current-gen consoles. Despite not contributing to the console ports, Byterunners seeks 40% of the profits, pointing to alleged verbal agreements.
- Byterunners claims profits were withheld unless certain production plans were agreed upon.
- Movie Games initiated settlement talks on September 3.
- Both parties agree Byterunners didn't work on the console ports.
- Byterunners demands 40% of profits, citing verbal agreements; Movie Games disputes this.
Escalating Tensions
The public disclosure of the dispute escalated tensions, with Movie Games demanding Byterunners pay fines totaling 4.5 million PLN (~$1.24 million) for failing to address bugs in DDS2. The publisher alleges over 300 unresolved bugs remain, claiming Byterunners missed multiple deadlines. Byterunners, however, describes these delays as common in game development.
Current Status and Next Steps
The disagreement extends to interpretations of verbal promises, contract specifics, and whether additional content constitutes copyrightable work under Polish law. While both parties express a desire for direct negotiations, communication has shifted to legal channels as Byterunners ceased direct contact. The matter remains unresolved and could proceed to litigation if no private agreement is reached.
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