Nintendo has issued takedown notices to Garry’s Mod, the popular sandbox game known for its user-generated content. This action forces the removal of nearly 20 years’ worth of Nintendo-related creations, leaving a significant void in the game’s expansive workshop.

Developed by Facepunch Studios, Garry’s Mod has been a haven for creative players since its 2006 release. Its flexibility allowed for importing countless models and assets, with Nintendo characters like Mario being a mainstay in player creations for years. However, this era of open creativity has come to an abrupt end.

Facepunch Studios confirmed the news on the game’s Steam page, stating, “This is Nintendo’s content, and what they allow and don’t allow is up to them.” While acknowledging Nintendo’s right to protect its intellectual property, the studio also expressed the difficulty of removing such a vast amount of content.

The takedown notices have left the Garry’s Mod community reeling. Many are surprised by Nintendo’s sudden action, especially considering the long-standing presence of their characters within the game. Garry’s Mod’s popularity was partly fueled by YouTubers showcasing creative game modes featuring Nintendo characters, raising questions about the impact of this content purge on the game’s future.

While some argue that Facepunch Studios should have been more proactive in moderating copyrighted material, the sheer volume of user-generated content made it a daunting task. Regardless, this event marks a significant shift for Garry’s Mod, leaving its community to grapple with the loss of beloved creations and an uncertain future.