Funko Responds to Itch.io Shutdown Caused by AI-Powered Brand Protection Software

Following the temporary shutdown of the indie game marketplace Itch.io, allegedly due to its affiliated brand protection software, Funko has issued a public statement. Let's delve into Funko's response.

Funko's Statement: Respect for the Indie Community

In an official X (formerly Twitter) post, Funko expressed its "deep respect and appreciation for indie games, indie gamers, and indie developers." They emphasized their love for the creativity and passion within the indie gaming community.

Funko acknowledged that its brand protection partner, BrandShield, flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, leading to a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarified that they did not request a complete shutdown of Itch.io and were relieved the platform was restored quickly.

Funko is now in private discussions with Itch.io to address the issue and appreciates the gaming community's understanding.

Itch.io's Perspective: More Than a Simple Takedown

However, Itch.io's owner, Leaf, provided a different perspective on Hacker News. He revealed the incident wasn't a simple takedown request, but rather a "fraud and phishing report" submitted to both the site's host and registrar. The registrar's automated system reacted by taking down the entire domain, despite Leaf's immediate action to remove the offending page. Leaf also noted, in a detail omitted from Funko's statement, that Funko's team contacted his mother.

For a more comprehensive account of the Itch.io shutdown, please refer to Game8's previous article.