Gaming giant Hoyoverse embraces merch by fan creators

Fan-made merchandise will be in the spotlight at an upcoming event by a major gaming company, an unusual move in an industry that is usually protective of its intellectual property (IP).

- Calista Wong

Some 38 creators will be allowed to hawk their wares at Hoyo Fest, held at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre from July 25 to 27.

"We are devoted to engaging fans and fostering an enthusiastic and inclusive global community that provides access to and encourages people to share their passion for ACG (anime, comics, games) through their own creativity and skills," said a spokesperson for event organizer Hoyoverse.

It is the global publishing and branding arm of Mihoyo, a major Chinese video game developer.

The creators to be featured at the event's Artist Alley have been vetted by the company to ensure product quality and non-usage of AI, its spokesperson added.

Fan artists such as Ms Astrea Lim and Ms Emi Moreno are thrilled by Hoyoverse's move. This will be their first time selling fan-made Hoyoverse merchandise at a convention targeted at fans of the franchise.

"It's a very good opportunity for creators to show their works while also being surrounded by the community," said Ms Lim, who is known as Astrea on social media.

Supporting fan artists is a "win-win" situation for Hoyoverse since game developers get to focus on the game development, while ensuring their fans are entertained by fresh ideas, said Ms Moreno.