The creation of mods for video games by third parties has long been a controversial subject in the industry. Some people argue that mods improve the longevity of popular but aging video games like Skyrim. Others, particularly game developers and publishers, worry that mods not only infringe on copyright but may also divert profits from the IP owner. The launch of Crysis Remastered Trilogy in October 2021 revived interest in both the series and mods that could further improve the gameplay experience.
Two popular mods for the remastered versions of Crysis 2 and 3 provide additional tools and options to expand the photo modes in the games. The mods were created by software engineer Frans Bouma, who has released camera mods for a number of titles, including Far Cry 6, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, and Guardians of the Galaxy. One of Bouma’s more popular mods adjusts the camera in Final Fantasy 7 Remake so that it matches the classic fixed angles of the original game.
Bouma recently shared a cease and desist letter that he received from Crytek, requesting that he remove the mods he had created for Crysis 2 and 3 Remastered. According to the letter, the company does not allow mods of its games or engine, and this is clarified in the terms of the games’ EULAs. Bouma complied with the request but also expressed his frustration on Twitter, stating that Crytek was “shoot[ing] themselves in their own feet” and he would never mod one of the company's games again. The modder pointed out that he has created custom photo mode mods for “more games than anyone else on this planet” and had only ever received enthusiastic responses from game developers and publishers.
While some responses to Bouma’s post advised that he simply ignore the cease and desist letter, Crytek has the right to request the removal of any modifications created for its games. When Bouma asked for clarification from Crytek, he was told that the main issue the company had with the mods was that they were monetized on the modder's Patreon page. The reply specifically asked that Bouma “remove the paywall,” possibly meaning that the mods could be re-shared if the monetization were removed. According to Crytek, the company appreciates the support of the gaming community but must also balance that appreciation with protecting its copyrights.
Developers or publishers asking for creators to cease mod distribution makes many gamers leery. Early in 2021, Take-Two Interactive began aggressively taking down long-established GTA mods, including some that had been around for over 15 years. These mods improved gameplay elements, added graphics enhancements, and have been credited with keeping the older GTA gaming community active. But their availability would have created direct competition with the release of GTA: The Trilogy – Definitive Edition, which launched on November 11, 2021, rife with graphical and technical performance issues.
Crysis Remastered Trilogy is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.