Claude Code Update Targets AI Game Clones: Anthropic Adds Anti-Copying Rule to Curb Vibe-Coded Copycats

Anthropic has updated Claude Code to prohibit the AI from recreating specific existing games, addressing a surge in AI-generated clones that have plagued developers. The new rule, spotted by user Chasm on X and shared via Game Developer, instructs the model to build original games, genre games, or games from user designs, but not to copy existing titles even if renamed. Anthropic's Addy Osmani confirmed the change on Opus 5.5, citing IP infringement policies, while noting original and genre games should continue to work. The move comes after Steam Next Fest was flooded with low-effort AI demos, prompting some developers to cancel demos for fear of being cloned before release. Valve has acknowledged the issue but offered no concrete solution, instead encouraging community building. The problem has even inspired satire, with Needle in a Haystack Simulator creator NasNakarus teasing a mode where players sift through clones. While this update is a positive step, developers remain cautious, as users may circumvent the rule or turn to other AI tools without such safeguards.