Funko Responds as Itch.io Recovers from Shut Down by AI-Powered Brandshield

Funko has issued a statement regarding the temporary shutdown of Itch.io, allegedly caused by their brand protection software, BrandShield. The statement, released on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizes Funko's respect for the indie game community.

Funko's Response: No Full Takedown Intended

Funko acknowledged that BrandShield flagged an Itch.io page mimicking the Funko Fusion development website, leading to a takedown request. Crucially, Funko clarified that they did not request a full takedown of Itch.io and expressed relief at the platform's swift restoration.

The company stated they are in private discussions with Itch.io to resolve the issue and thanked the gaming community for their understanding.

However, Itch.io owner Leaf's account on Hacker News provides a more nuanced perspective. He described the action not as a simple takedown request, but as a "fraud and phishing report" sent to both Itch.io's host and registrar. The registrar's automated system responded by taking down the entire domain, despite Leaf's immediate action to remove the offending page. Leaf also noted, in a detail omitted from Funko's statement, that Funko's team contacted his mother.

For further details on the Itch.io shutdown, refer to Game8's previous coverage.