Stellar Blade vs \"Stellarblade\" Lawsuit Makes It More Confusing

A Louisiana-based film production company, Stellarblade, has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Sony and Shift Up, the developers of the PS5 action-adventure game, Stellar Blade.

Stellar Blade Faces Trademark Infringement Lawsuit from "Stellarblade"

Conflicting Registered Trademarks

The lawsuit, filed earlier this month in a Louisiana court, alleges that Sony and Shift Up's use of the name "Stellar Blade" infringes upon Stellarblade's existing trademark. Griffith Chambers Mehaffey, owner of the film production company specializing in commercials, documentaries, music videos, and independent films, claims the game's title has harmed his business. He argues that the game's online presence overshadows his company, making it difficult for potential clients to find him through online searches for "Stellarblade."

Mehaffey's legal action seeks monetary damages, attorney fees, and an injunction preventing further use of "Stellar Blade" (or variations thereof) by Sony and Shift Up. He also demands the destruction of all Stellar Blade materials in their possession.

Mehaffey registered the "Stellarblade" trademark in June 2023, following a cease and desist letter to Shift Up the previous month. He claims ownership of the stellarblade.com domain since 2006, actively using the name in his business since 2011. The lawsuit highlights that Stellar Blade, initially known as "Project Eve," was renamed in 2022, with Shift Up registering the trademark in January 2023—months before Mehaffey's registration.

Mehaffey's lawyer stated to IGN that they believe Sony and Shift Up were aware of Mehaffey's established rights before adopting the similar name. The lawyer emphasized Mehaffey's long-standing use of the name and domain, arguing that the game's superior online presence has pushed his business into obscurity. The lawsuit also points to similarities between the logos and the stylized 'S' as further evidence of infringement. The lawyer contends that the defendants' actions constitute unfair competition, threatening Mehaffey's livelihood. It's important to note that trademark rights can often be applied retroactively.