60fps Dark Souls PC fix hit by surprise Bandai Namco DMCA copyright takedown demand

UPDATE:It looks like this was alla big misunderstanding, according to Neogaf sleuths, and that DSfix will survive as normal.

ORIGINAL STORY: The mod that popularised the otherwise technically compromised PC version of Dark Souls has been pulled after a copyright threat.

DSfix, made by Durante, implements 1080p and 60fps gameplay into the title – without the mod the game is restricted to 720p and will run at just 30fps. The download has been available for years and a new version designed to work with the recently released GFWL-free iteration of the game arrived just moment after the Steam update.

Until now there has been no hint that either Bandai Namco or developer From were uncomfortable with the mod. Indeed, it has even been hinted that they were quietly pleased by it.

We’ve received a notification under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act ("DMCA") from BANDAI NAMCO Games Germany GmbH that the following material is claimed to be infringing,” a message from Dropbox, where the file was being hosted, to Durante read, as per Neogaf.

Accordingly, under Section 512(c)(1)(C) of DMCA, we’ve removed or disabled access to the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity. Please be aware that copyright infringement violates our Terms of Service and Copyright Policy.”

Durante himself added: This is utter bullshit of course, especially since DSfix does not include any of their material. I’m actually amazed that they would do this. I mean WTF?”

It’s perfectly possible that the takedown notice was some sort of automated measure that could yet be reversed. Or the result of some trouble makers posing as Bandai Namco to trick Dropbox into removing the file.

Other Neogaffers, however, speculate that this could be Bandai Namco preparing the market for a 1080p/60fps Dark Souls remaster for next-gen and PC, which would certainly be in line with the current strategy.

If the move is deliberate it will undoubtedly result in a backlash of sorts among the game’s PC userbase. It’s no exaggeration to say that DSfix has played a crucial role in helping the PC version establish itself – generating countless sales in the process – and Durante himself has been a big proponent and defender of both games in the series. Any perceived attack on him will be poorly received.