Capcom Lays Out ground Rules for fan-Made Content,Balancing Creativity and Copyright
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A new set of guidelines released by Capcom on November 4,2025,aims to clarify the boundaries for fans creating derivative works based on the company’s intellectual property. The move signals a broader industry trend of game developers seeking to foster community creativity while protecting their brands and copyrights.
Capcom is actively encouraging users to engage in creative activities, but with a clear set of stipulations. According to a company release, the guidelines apply solely to intellectual property owned by Capcom, and users are responsible for verifying the ownership of any third-party content incorporated into their creations. The company explicitly states it will not field inquiries regarding rights ownership.
Defining “Derivative Works”
The guidelines define derivative works as original creations built upon Capcom’s copyrighted material – including character designs, stories, and music – with the addition of user-generated creativity. This encompasses a wide range of mediums, from illustrations and manga to games, novels, 3D models, music, cosplay, photography, and video content.
When publishing these fan-made works, Capcom stresses the importance of clear distinction from official content. Users are advised to explicitly state that their works are not official Capcom products and are created by fans. The guidelines also emphasize that works for commercial purposes is generally prohibited. However, Capcom acknowledges a limited exception for hobbyist activities, such as sales at doujinshi events, provided the scale remains small. A senior official stated that the company retains the right to determine whether a particular activity falls within the “scope of hobbies,” and may request the suspension of sales if deemed commercial. Sales of figures and garage kits are permitted only at events like Wonder Festival where Capcom has granted copyright permission for the day, and event organizers should be consulted for details.
Who Does This Affect?
These guidelines are primarily targeted toward “individuals” and “organizations without corporate status.” Corporations seeking to utilize capcom’s intellectual property are directed to contact the company’s licensing department.
Prohibited Activities
A comprehensive list of prohibited activities is outlined in the guidelines, including:
- Commercial use (except for limited hobbyist activities)
- Content violating public order or morals, including discriminatory or obscene material.
- Content intended for slander, religious proselytization, political campaigning, or association with anti-social groups.
- Works infringing on the intellectual property rights of third parties.
- Works lacking sufficient originality to qualify as derivative.
- Content damaging to Capcom’s brand image.
- Content creating the impression of official endorsement or authorization.
- Activities interfering with or negatively impacting Capcom’s business operations.
- direct imitations or “dead copies” of Capcom products.
- Unauthorized use of the Capcom logo or game title logos.
- Direct processing, repurposing, or use of Capcom’s copyrighted works without modification.
- Any other use deemed inappropriate by the company.
Capcom Reserves the Right to Intervene
Despite the guidelines, Capcom reserves the right to request the cessation of derivative work usage at its discretion. The company explicitly disclaims obligation for any damages resulting from such requests and states it will not respond to inquiries regarding discontinuing use.Furthermore, Capcom warns that malicious use, particularly for commercial gain, may result in criminal or civil legal action.
Ongoing Updates and Title-Specific Guidelines
Capcom emphasizes that the guidelines are subject to change without notice or compensation. Users are also advised to check for title-specific guidelines, which may be posted on official websites. Those creating gameplay videos are directed to consult separate video guidelines for specific regulations.
The release of these guidelines represents a proactive step by Capcom to navigate the evolving landscape of fan creativity and intellectual property rights, aiming to strike a balance between fostering community engagement and protecting its valuable assets.
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