OpenAI employee takes down ChatGPT-coded RuneScape clone following Jagex cease-and-desist

Rohan Varma, an OpenAI employee working on the Codex AI coding tool, built and briefly hosted a browser-based RuneScape clone called Elderwood. Screenshots shared by Varma showed graphics and user interface closely resembling Old School RuneScape, including identical place names such as Lumbridge. Varma described the project as an OSRS clone in social media posts, though he did not release gameplay footage.

The project gained attention on September 7 when a Reddit user posted about Elderwood in the Old School RuneScape subreddit, criticizing its lack of originality and calling for Jagex to intervene. Varma acknowledged a sudden surge in users after the post went viral, noting the game had reached 55 concurrent players at its peak. Community reactions were largely negative, focusing on concerns over creativity and ownership.

Jagex responded by issuing a cease-and-desist notice to Varma, prompting the immediate removal of Elderwood. By September 9, the game’s website was replaced with a farewell message from Varma, confirming the shutdown following the legal request. The message thanked players and announced the site would remain accessible with a leaderboard of high scores.

Varma’s project drew broader scrutiny over OpenAI’s role in AI-generated content, with critics arguing it exemplified careless use of existing creative works. The episode highlighted tensions around AI tools being used to replicate proprietary game designs without permission or compensation.