When you face a problem in a game, it’s natural to seek solutions online. Some players might even reach out to game developers directly. But one Steam user took it a step further—while playing a pirated version of Farthest Frontier.
Farthest Frontier, a medieval city-builder by Crate Entertainment, has gained popularity since its release in October 2021. It mixes city-building with survival elements like an intricate farming system and real-time village management. Despite its acclaim, this particular player, known as BigBadAss33, had a lot of complaints, from the game’s forested maps to its trading and inventory systems.
In mid-December, BigBadAss33 began having issues with the game crashing unexpectedly. They turned to the game’s forums, urging the developers for help. In a post titled “Please fix your in-game time?” they directly appealed to the creators. Zantai, one of the developers, quickly responded, pointing out that the user was running a pirated version and advised them to buy the game instead.
This interaction highlights how game developers often deal with piracy. Many take different approaches. Some use anti-piracy software, while others intentionally design quirky features for pirated copies. For example, Rockstar added a glitch in Grand Theft Auto 4 that made players’ characters act drunk, creating a frustrating experience for those who didn’t purchase the game.
Zantai’s response brings up a broader conversation about the ethics of gaming and piracy. Developers like him understand that not all pirates have bad intentions; some may be genuinely unable to afford games. In a Reddit comment, he emphasized that while piracy is complex, it doesn’t mean that players with financial constraints should be punished. He believes that if someone’s financial situation prevents them from buying a game, it’s not considered a lost sale.
Yet, he makes it clear that those pirating out of entitlement or protest should reconsider their actions. “If [an indie developer’s] work brings you joy, help put food on their table,” he said. Zantai sees piracy as part of a larger issue affecting the gaming community and creators. His measured reaction to BigBadAss33 reveals that while developers might enforce policies against piracy, they also recognize the nuances involved.
Interestingly, responses to this incident have sparked discussions on social media, with some users condemning BigBadAss33’s actions while others argue about the complexities of gaming accessibility.
Overall, the conversation around game piracy and consumer responsibility is ongoing. As players and developers navigate this landscape, understanding each other’s perspectives can lead to better solutions for all involved.
