You got served: Konami sues Viacom and Harmonix over Rock Band

Another day, another lawsuit: this time, Konami sues Harmonix and Viacom for reportedly encroaching on their patents with Harmonix’ hit music and rhythm game franchise, Rock Band (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii). Does this have to do with the fact that Konami is currently developing Rock Revolution? More details in the full article.

We usually roll our eyes and say something along the lines of “not again” whenever we read about any lawsuits filed against major gaming companies over patents. However, this here may just get our attention: this time, Konami sued Harmonix and Viacom, claiming that the technology used for the Rock Band  (Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii)franchise violated their patents.

Rock Band is currently known for being a rhythm game that utilizes mock-ups of actual musical instruments: guitars, drums, and microphone. Konami, on the other hand, have already issued patents for similar controllers also modeled after musical instruments, and they were filed sometime in 2002 to 2003.

Konami Digital Entertainment has recently announced that the company is planning to come up with their own music/rhythm franchise known as Rock Revolution. The game is slated to be released sometime later this year.

Konami has already filed the complaint in Marshall, Texas, and demands for cash compensation along with an order that will stop Harmonix and Viacom from using their patents.

• Zoe Mode to develop Konami’s Rock Revolution
• Konami Gamer’s Day 08: producer talks Rock Revolution

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