Japanese Authorities Crack Down on Pokémon Sun Save Data Modding: Latest Arrest Highlights Legal Risks

Japanese Authorities Crack Down on Pokémon Sun Save Data Modding: Latest Arrest Highlights Legal Risks Japanese law enforcement has once again underlined the strict legal boundaries surrounding game data modifications, this time arresting a Saitama-based man for selling unauthorized save data for Pokémon Sun.

The case comes amidst increasing scrutiny from both the Japanese authorities and Nintendo, reinforcing the message that tampering with game data is considered a serious offense under Japanese law. Background: Repeat Offenses in Pokémon Save Data Hacking Pokémon Sun, released in November 2016 for the Nintendo 3DS, stands among the most successful titles in the franchise’s seventh generation, with millions of copies sold worldwide.

However, the game, like other entries in the series, has been targeted by save data hackers seeking to provide players with rare or event-exclusive Pokémon for a price.

Earlier in 2024, Japanese police made headlines with the arrest of an individual for selling modified save files for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

Despite this high-profile case, authorities have now reported another similar incident involving an older entry in the Pokémon series. Details of the Recent Arrest in Saitama According to statements from Japanese police and coverage by outlets such as Automaton West and TBS News, a 32-year-old man from Saitama was apprehended on allegations of violating Japan’s Unfair Competition Prevention Act.

The suspect allegedly sold hacked save data for Pokémon Sun via online listings, with each save data file priced at approximately 5,200 yen (around £27 or $35).

The listings reportedly promoted save files containing over 800 Pokémon, including creatures only available through limited events or specific physical locations. Authorities launched their investigation after a cyber patrol detected suspicious listings for various Pokémon games advertising these comprehensive save files.

Upon searching the suspect’s residence, law enforcement seized a computer and 37 video game cartridges.

Subsequent assessments by Nintendo confirmed the presence of unauthorized modifications in the confiscated ROMs.

In a statement to investigators, the suspect admitted to the charges of data tampering. Legal Ramifications and Nintendo’s Ongoing Enforcement Under the Unfair Competition Prevention Act, the sale or distribution of altered game data can result in severe penalties, including up to five years in prison or a fine reaching five million yen.

This case serves as yet another example of the Japanese authorities' zero-tolerance approach regarding intellectual property violations in the gaming sector.

Nintendo has maintained a firm stance on the integrity of its software, actively supporting police investigations and confirming tampered products when necessary. The suspect remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to examine the scope of the illicit operation.

The incident underscores the risks faced by those engaging in the unauthorized sale or distribution of modified game data, particularly on platforms like the Nintendo 3DS and for popular titles such as Pokémon Sun. For all fans and participants in the Nintendo ecosystem, this latest development is a clear reminder: the sale or purchase of hacked save data violates legal and ethical standards and will be met with stringent enforcement.

Pokémon Nintendo Japan Japanese police Pokémon Sun Unfair Competition Prevention Act