Anthropic updates Claude Code to prevent users from recreating existing video games

Artificial intelligence developer Anthropic has updated its Claude Code software to prevent users from recreating existing video games, Game Developer and Kotaku reported. Game Developer reported that Anthropic confirmed an update to its Opus 5.5 model designed to steer the artificial intelligence away from recreating specific titles. Kotaku reported that the new rule blocks the AI from building a recreation of an existing game even if it is renamed or presented as original. [1][2]

An update titled tengu heron brook was added to the Claude Code rules around October 27, according to social media posts cited by Game Developer and confirmed by Kotaku. Game Developer reported that the rule explicitly permits the AI to build original games, games within a genre, or projects based on a user's own designs and assets, but forbids recreating existing titles. Kotaku reported that the update follows recent complaints from users after the AI stopped working alongside Reverse Engineer Anything, a tool used to decompile video games. [1][2]

The restriction comes after months of users using AI software to build unauthorized versions of classic and upcoming video games for personal fun or financial gain, Game Developer reported. Anthropic trains its models using Constitutional AI, a method introduced in 2022 that relies on natural language principles and AI feedback to guide model behavior. [1][7]

As FTMQ Gaming reported earlier, major game developers have recently expanded their use of Anthropic's technology, including Epic Games, which delayed an upcoming shooter to pivot toward full AI development workflows using Claude. [8]