Anthropic Restricts Claude Code From Recreating Games, Developers Report Problems

Anthropic has introduced new restrictions in Claude Code to prevent users from recreating existing video games, even when they change the names or describe the projects as original. However, some developers say the restrictions also prevent them from working on legitimate projects.

The change affects Claude Opus 5.5 and aims to reduce intellectual property infringement. Anthropic’s Addy Osmani confirmed the policy on October 30, 2026.

Claude Code can now refuse requests to recreate existing games

An X user named Chasm discovered a new instruction reportedly introduced around October 27 under the configuration name tengu_heron_brook.

The instruction tells Claude Code not to recreate existing games, even when users rename them or present them as original projects.

Anthropic reportedly enforces the restriction through server-delivered instructions, meaning users cannot disable it through Claude Code’s settings.

Osmani explained that the change targets unauthorized copying of copyrighted games rather than general game development.

Claude Code should still support original games, projects inspired by existing genres, and games that use developers’ own designs and assets.

However, Osmani acknowledged that the restrictions could incorrectly block legitimate projects and encouraged affected developers to report these cases.

Developers say Claude Code is refusing legitimate work

On October 30, a developer representing Conflict Simulations LLC reported problems with the restrictions on Anthropic’s official GitHub repository.

The company develops personalized digital board-wargame modules for customers, using original code and materials that customers provide.

According to the developer, Claude Code started refusing to work on these projects despite their intended personal use. The modules do not have official licenses from the original game publishers.

The developer claimed the refusals began after asking Claude Code to evaluate whether the new restrictions applied to the projects.

Even clearing the original session reportedly failed to resolve the problem, as Claude continued rejecting requests involving the same repositories.

The complaint raises questions about how Claude Code distinguishes unauthorized copies from independent development, particularly when projects use existing game mechanics or customer-provided materials.

Anthropic maintains that developers can continue creating original games and genre-inspired projects, but the reported problems suggest its restrictions may need further adjustments to avoid blocking legitimate work.

Meanwhile, Anthropic has reportedly filed for an IPO despite an $80.7 billion loss and recently renamed its Claude Max 5x and 20x plans while removing Ultra’s five-hour limit.

Via VideoCardz