Intellectual property in Russia’s video game market persists despite major publisher withdrawals
Even as the biggest game publishers have exited the Russian market, intellectual property rights for video games remain a covered and enforceable area of law. An IT lawyer, Anna Ryazanova, notes that a copyright holder exists and that legal protections continue to apply to digital entertainment.
There have been no legal changes yet to authorize piracy of digital entertainment in Russia. A notable judicial moment involved a decision where copyright protection was denied in a case involving a company from a non-hostile jurisdiction. The Arbitration Court of the Kirov Region ruled against a claim in the Peppa Pig case because the British company was deemed hostile. This outcome sparked discussion about whether similar arguments could trifle with enforcing rights against game hackers. The appeal nonetheless upheld the rights of the foreign company and held violators responsible.
The lawyer stressed that within the borders of the Russian Federation, intellectual property rights are protected equally, and piracy is punishable regardless of where the game was developed. This means civil, administrative, or even criminal liability can come into play for those who distribute or use pirated copies.
She cautioned that measures like halting sales or publishers stepping away from the market do not grant the local community a pass to pirate games. Players and distributors should not relax. Respect for copyright remains a priority, and enforcement persists in various forms across platforms and channels.
Instead of attempting to save money by downloading pirated copies or bypassing restrictions, consumers are encouraged to explore legitimate avenues to obtain digital versions. If there are barriers to access, considerations may include official regional storefronts, digital subscriptions, or authorized retailers. Parallel import programs can also present risks when physical copies are moved across borders, which may involve additional warranty or eligibility concerns for buyers.
In practical terms, the path to lawful gaming involves staying aware of rights holders and regional licensing. The goal is to enjoy content while respecting creators and publishers, and to avoid legal jeopardy that could come from illicit sources or unverified sellers. This approach supports a healthier gaming ecosystem that benefits developers, local communities, and players alike.
For those navigating the market, staying informed about licensing terms, platform rules, and regional accessibility is essential. The landscape can change with new regulations, court rulings, or shifts in how digital goods are sold and protected. Consumers are advised to verify the legitimacy of storefronts and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, as such deals can often involve risk and exposure to unauthorized content.