ESA reaffirms SOPA support

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has reiterated its uncategorical support for America’s controversial Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA).

If implemented, SOPA will allow both the US government and copyright holders to apply for court orders to close down or block access to websites deemed to be hosting copyrighted content.

However, much as was seen on this side of the Atlantic in relation to the Digital Economy Act, critics of the US proposals have become increasingly vocal.

So vocal, in fact, that former supporters such as Nintendo, EA and Sony have subsequently sought to have their names removed from the official list of companies backing SOPA.

The problem, however, is that ESA remains an ardent supporter of SOPA.

And with big hitters such as Nintendo, EA, Sony, Microsoft, Square Enix, Ubisoft, THQ, Disney Interactive, Konami, Sega, Warner Bros and Take-Two on its membership list, all are effectively backing SOPA so long as the ESA’s stance remains unchanged.

"As an industry of innovators and creators, we understand the importance of both technological innovation and content protection, and do not believe the two are mutually exclusive,” an ESA statement explained.

Rogue websites – those singularly devoted to profiting from their blatant illegal piracy – restrict demand for legitimate video game products and services, thereby costing jobs.
"Our industry needs effective remedies to address this specific problem, and we support the House and Senate proposals to achieve this objective.

We are mindful of concerns raised about a negative impact on innovation. We look forward to working with the House and Senate, and all interested parties, to find the right balance and define useful remedies to combat wilful wrongdoers that do not impede lawful product and business model innovation."