DMCA Policy – Respawn Review

At Respawn Review, we are committed to respecting and protecting the intellectual property rights of game developers, publishers, artists, composers, writers, and all other creators involved in the video game industry. Our platform exists to connect players, share knowledge, and celebrate gaming culture, but it must do so in compliance with applicable copyright laws, including the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). This policy outlines how we handle copyright infringement claims, protect creators’ works, and maintain a lawful environment for all users.

1. Purpose of the Policy

Video games are complex works that combine software code, visual art, music, dialogue, scripts, cinematic sequences, and unique gameplay mechanics. These components are often protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, modification, or public display of these elements may constitute infringement. Our DMCA policy is designed to give rights holders a clear process to report violations and to provide users with an avenue to respond if they believe their content is lawful.

2. Protected Works

• Game code, scripts, and programming logic
• 2D and 3D models, animations, textures, and interface designs
• Original music, sound effects, and voice acting recordings
• Cinematic sequences, story scripts, dialogue, and cutscenes
• Promotional artwork, concept designs, and in-game screenshots
• Unique characters, settings, logos, and game titles

Unauthorized uploading, streaming, or distribution of any of these materials—whether in raw form or as part of derivative works—without the rights holder’s consent is strictly prohibited.

3. Submitting a DMCA Takedown Notice

If you believe that your copyrighted video game content has been used on our platform without permission, you can submit a DMCA Takedown Notice containing:

• Your full legal name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address
• Identification of the copyrighted work you claim is infringed
• Clear description of the infringing material and its location on our platform
• A statement that you have a good faith belief that the disputed use is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law
• A statement, under penalty of perjury, that the information you provide is accurate and that you are authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner
• Your physical or electronic signature

Once we receive a valid notice, we will review the claim, remove or restrict access to the allegedly infringing content, and notify the uploader.

4. Counter-Notification Procedure

If your content has been removed or disabled due to a DMCA claim and you believe this was an error or that your use is protected (for example, under fair use), you may submit a counter-notification that includes:

• Your full legal name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address
• Identification of the removed material and its original location before removal
• A statement, under penalty of perjury, that you believe the removal was a result of mistake or misidentification
• A statement that you consent to the jurisdiction of the appropriate court for legal matters, and that you will accept service of process from the complainant
• Your physical or electronic signature

If a valid counter-notification is received, we will forward it to the original complainant. If no legal action is filed within the required time frame, the removed content may be restored.

5. Repeat Infringer Policy

We take repeated copyright violations seriously. Users who repeatedly upload infringing content may face suspension, permanent account termination, or restrictions on using certain features of our platform.

6. Fair Use in the Context of Video Games

• Game reviews, critiques, and commentary
• Educational demonstrations and tutorial videos
• Streaming or recording gameplay for non-commercial purposes with transformative commentary
• Parody and transformative works that significantly alter the original material
• News reporting about gaming events, releases, or industry updates

Fair use is determined case-by-case, and users are responsible for ensuring their content qualifies before posting.

7. Misuse of the DMCA Process

Submitting false or misleading DMCA notices or counter-notifications is prohibited and may result in legal liability. All parties involved in a DMCA process must provide truthful, accurate, and complete information.

8. Enforcement and Policy Updates

We actively enforce this DMCA policy to ensure the protection of creators and the integrity of our platform. This policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in copyright law, industry practices, or our operational requirements.

By maintaining this policy, we aim to strike a fair balance between protecting the creative work of video game developers and fostering a community where players can share, discuss, and enjoy gaming experiences within legal and respectful boundaries.