They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but creatives from all over the world would beg to disagree. It happens very often in the entertainment business that one has to wonder what was first, the chicken or the egg. And not even PS games are free of copycats, and titles “inspired” by them.
Anna Rosak is a casino gaming specialist and esports aficionado behind one of the biggest gaming sites in Poland. When she is not co-creating “ranking najlepszych kasyn online”, or rating online casinos, she is playing games of all sorts. After all, e-gaming is one of the most popular pastimes of her generation.
“When we consider games that look the same, it is important to look at the original resources. Some myths and legends, for instance, have been a never-ending source of inspiration for painters, filmmakers, musicians, and gaming developers. It takes more than an idea to consider something plagiarism. However, when things get more specific, it is far easier to detect original content from stolen ones”, she reasons.
So what are the games that bear so much resemblance? And to be more specific, what casino games feed on the allure of PS classics?
Donkey Kong vs 9K Kong in Vegas
Donkey Kong is more than a game – it is a franchise that has set the standards for all the video games to come. Initially released in 1981, it was revolutionary for the time, and its arcade principles had a lasting effect on the industry.
9K Kong in Vegas by 4ThePlayer, borrows the arcade element but Rosak believes it is far from being a copyright infringement: “Both titles are inspired by the biggest ape of them all – King Kong. It would be unfair to call it plagiarism, despite all the common elements.”
Besides, 9K Kong in Vegas will probably never reach the cult status Donkey Kong has. Namely, one of the most popular games of all time, created by Shigeru Miyamoto has been present for 40 years, and 9K Kong in Vegas is a relatively new slot, still positioning itself on the market.
God of War vs Sword of Ares
God of War is an action-adventure that has been impressing players since 2005. The story follows Kratos, a Spartan warrior and later the Greek God of War, on his bloody escapades. Rosak, once again, says the original screenplay is far older than the PS game, and that the number of Greek games in online casinos shouldn’t be blamed on it, but rather on the Greeks.
“Players who enjoy God of War will love Sword of Ares slot or any other similar game for that matter. Greek mythology is bloody, it’s dark, it’s ambiguous and therefore, a perfect source of inspiration for anyone. Still, Sword of Ares can help you achieve real money wins, so don’t hesitate to consider it”, she says.
Red Dead Redemption 2 – Money Train series
Developed by the creators of Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption, Red Dead Redemption 2 takes your hand and leads you back to the Wild West. And so does Money Train. Although incredibly similar in style and some basic principles, Rosak argues that the casino slot delivers a world-class gaming experience.
“I know Red Dead Redemption 2 has a massive fanbase, but Money Train series just hits differently. It is one of the most elaborate casino slot machines out there, and definitely surpassed all the well-established slot rules”, says Anna. Among many other popular slots that are worth trying out, Money Train stands out with its vibrant design.
Monster Hunter: World vs Of Cossacks and Monsters
“To put it simply, in Monster Hunter: World you are fighting enormous monsters. In Of Cossacks and Monsters you fight the monster that never appears on the screen. Honestly, I have no clue which one is scarier. What do you think”, Rosak asks.
Although Of Cossacks and Monsters does feature a change in the setting, it is the variety of environments that elevates the Monster Hunter: World above it. “It is tempting, absorbing, and simply unique. Argue all you want, but a single casino game can live up to the mesmerizing and spellbinding world of Monster Hunter”, claims the gaming fan.
Ghost of Tsushima: Legends vs Sakura Fortune series
Even today, in the 21st century, Japan is still a mystery to many. That is perhaps the reason Ghost of Tsushima: Legends became a phenomenon that defined the way we perceive PS games. Regardless, Rosak argues that online casinos also have a horse for the chase – the Sakura Fortune series.
“Sakura Fortune has samurais and revenge, but packed in a light and more welcoming design and a traditional love story. Ghost of Tsushima: Legends is significantly darker, grittier and more nerve-wracking. It is up to gamers to pick their favourites and have a good time”, she concludes in the end.