Over the summer, Zach Snyder revealed that game developer Evil Genius Games would create a tabletop RPG in partnership with Netflix for his upcoming sci-fi epic Rebel Moon. However, now the studio is suing Netflix for allegedly backing out of the game deal.
Netflix backed out of the deal in May after claiming the developer shared confidential artwork at the GAMA Expo. However, Evil Genius states that the presentation in question was done jointly with Netflix. Furthermore, all artwork was sent to Netflix for approval before the expo and the streaming service had approved all artwork displayed months prior.
At the time of Netflix’s withdrawal from the deal, Evil Genius had already provided the network with a 228-page World Bible. According to the developer the World bible vastly expands on the world Snyder created for Rebel Moon. The developer also created a 430-page player’s guide and a 337-page game master’s guide. Upon receiving the guides and World Bible, Netflix cancelled the deal. It asserted that it retains ownership of the Rebel Moon TTRPG despite not fairly compensating Evil Genuis for its work.
“We hoped we could resolve this situation amicably. After we reached out several times and attempted to work things out with Netflix, Netflix refused to substantively engage with us. So, after much thought, Evil Genius Games has decided to stand up for itself and defend both our IP and this project,” states the developer concerning its lawsuit against Netflix.
How the public can help
Evil Genius is asking fans to take to social media to let Netflix know how they feel about breaking the deal. The company asks social media users to use the hashtags #GiveThemCredit, #ReleaseTheGame and #RebelMoonBlues. It also asks social media users to tag Netflix, Zach Snyder and Evil Genius games in their posts. Fans can also sign the developer’s petition to release the game.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
