Play’n GO retracts Starblast from planned launch, responding to objections raised by NetEnt.
As reported by sources yet to be confirmed, the game Starblast by Play’n GO was planned to launch on March 20th but vanished from its schedule and demo server after rights issues with NetEnt arose. It was considered a clone of NetEnt's renowned Starburst, a pioneer in online slot gaming.
Before its anticipated release, Starblast had already stirred controversy within industry circles. Many reached out for our perspective on this. In a detailed write-up titled 'A Parallel Universe,' we observed:
“It’s clear that Starblast was Play’n GO’s take on copying NetEnt’s legendary Starburst. Although Starburst is a massive favorite, being a free spins staple, it originally drew inspiration from Novomatic’s Power Stars from 2008, suggesting that NetEnt's originality claim is shaky.”
while wrapping it up with…
“Launching an almost identical version of Starburst, Play’n GO seems audacious, hardly bothering to differentiate even the name. This strikes as textbook trademark violation, though we aren't legal experts.”
You can read our full review of Starblast here .
Reports suggest an ongoing lawsuit by Novomatic against Play’n GO, seeking damages for copying Book of Dead, which mirrors Book of Ra, another popular slot by Novomatic.
It is plausible that Play’n GO might redevelop and release the game under a new identity. Awaiting official statements from NetEnt or Play’n GO, an update will follow accordingly.
