As ComputerWire went to press, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc was seeking injunctions against two software companies that develop and sell emulators for its popular PlayStation games console. Sony wants a preliminary injunction barring Connectix Inc from selling its Virtual Game Station, an application that emulates a PlayStation environment on Apple Macintosh G3 hardware. In another action, Sony sought a temporary restraining order against a tiny San Diego, California-based company called Bleem.
Games companies fear that widespread availability of high-quality emulators will cut into their hardware revenues and nurture a black market in illegally copied games. In particular, Sony alleges that the application violates its copyrights, encourages games piracy and damages the Sony brand. Nevertheless both Bleem and Connectix remain bullish, telling Wired News on Friday that even if they lose this court battle, they intend to win the war.
