Developer Prefers Unauthorized Use of Peak Game Over Playing a 'Microtransaction-Based Roblox-style Knockoff'
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The gaming community is abuzz with discussions about a recent controversy involving the popular indie game Peak and its Roblox clone, Cliff. Cliff, developed by PewStudio, is a near-copy of Peak, replicating its core gameplay of cooperative mountain climbing with striking similarities in art style and design.
Peak, developed by Aggro Crab Games in collaboration with Landfall Games, became a viral indie hit after its PC release in June 2025. Selling over 5 million copies in its first month and maintaining a top spot on Steamβs charts, the game's increased visibility has unfortunately attracted clones like Cliff on Roblox.
Aggro Crab Games have expressed their disapproval of Cliff, labelling it a "microtransaction-riddled Roblox slop ripoff." On Twitter, they have explicitly stated that they would rather people pirate Peak than play this Roblox clone. This sentiment highlights their dissatisfaction with the monetization approach of Cliff and its infringement on their gameβs concept and design.
Cliff has amassed tens of thousands of active users and "favorites" on Roblox, contributing to the sensation and frustration around the cloning issue. The developers of Peak have yet to pursue formal copyright takedown (DMCA) actions but have publicly called out Cliff and discouraged supporting the clone.
The controversy reflects a broader pattern where Roblox hosts unlicensed copies of successful commercial games, often with exploitative microtransaction models. This issue underscores the importance of intellectual property rights and the need for platforms to ensure that developers are adequately compensated for their work.
Shaun Prescott, the Australian editor of PC Gamer with over ten years of experience covering the games industry, shares the sentiment that Cliff is a blatant clone of Peak. Prescott, who thinks Lulu by Metallica and Lou Reed is an all-time classic, has interests that include indie games, obscure Metroidvanias, speedrunning, experimental games, and FPSs.
In summary, the Peak developer Aggro Crab condemns the Cliff Roblox clone as blatant theft and encourages players to pirate Peak rather than support the microtransaction-heavy copycat, underscoring the wider issue of unauthorized cloning in gaming communities.
- The gaming season is filled with discussions about intellectual property rights, following the controversy involving Peak and its Roblox clone, Cliff.
- Cliff, developed by PewStudio, is a near-copy of Peak, replicating its gameplay, art style, and design.
- Peak, a hit indie game, was developed by Aggro Crab Games and Landfall Games.
- Despite its popularity with over 5 million copies sold, the viral Peak has attracted clones like Cliff on Roblox.
- Aggro Crab Games have criticized Cliff, calling it a "microtransaction-riddled Roblox slop ripoff."
- On social media, they have suggested that people pirate Peak instead of playing the Roblox clone.
- Cliff has garnered tens of thousands of active users and favorites on Roblox.
- The developers of Peak have yet to pursue formal copyright takedown actions but have publicly criticized Cliff.
- The cloning issue highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the gaming industry.
- Platforms need to ensure that developers are adequately compensated for their work.
- The controversy reflects a broader pattern where Roblox hosts unlicensed copies of successful commercial games.
- Shaun Prescott, an Australian editor of PC Gamer, agrees that Cliff is a blatant clone of Peak.
- Prescott, a long-time games industry expert, has interests in indie games, speedrunning, experimental games, and FPSs.
- The turmoil around Cliff and Peak underscores the need for responsible gambling and copyright awareness in the gaming community.
- The issue transcends the gaming world, touching on aspects of finance, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
- Smartphones and gadgets have become integral to the gaming lifestyle, facilitating access to games like Peak and Cliff.
- Personal finance and wealth management are essential for entrepreneurs looking to invest in small businesses or venture capital.
- Diversity and inclusion are crucial in the gaming industry, as well as in the world of business and careers.
- Real estate, commercial, residential, and the stock market are other financial arenas affected by these trends.
- Big wins in the stock market, real estate, or the gaming world can lead to significant wealth.
- Saving, debt management, and budgeting skills are essential for managing this newfound wealth.
- Books on education and self-development, including topics like personal growth, mindfulness, and productivity, can help entrepreneurs and gamers alike.
- Venture capital is another avenue for investing in promising startups, including game development studios or e-learning platforms.
- The housing market can also be influenced by trends in gaming and technology, with increasing demand for co-living spaces for game developers.
- The growth of online education platforms also reflects the importance of lifelong learning and skills training.
- The gambling industry extends beyond casinos and lotteries, encompassing sports betting and social media gaming trends.
- The ongoing debates around responsible gambling, crime and justice, and social media's impact on these trends are significant issues in pop culture.
- Careers in game development, venture capital, or online education can be rewarding and lucrative, offering opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
- Job search platforms and career development resources are vital tools for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in these industries.
- The culture surrounding popular games like Peak and Cliff can influence lifestyle choices, from the types of gadgets and technologies used to the values and priorities of the gaming community.
