ESL accused of stealing content by CS2 map creator

In a recent controversy, popular map creator Lillykyu has called out the prestigious tournament organizer ESL for reuploading her content without permission. The incident has sparked widespread outrage among fans and creators, raising concerns about content rights and the ethics of big esports organizations.

Who is Lillykyu?

Lillykyu is a respected figure in the CS2 community, recognized for her creative and fun custom maps. Some of her popular works include Duck Hunt and Minecraft Hunger Games, both of which have garnered significant attention.

Her latest map, JETPACK JOYCHICKEN, is a playful recreation of the popular mobile game Jetpack Joyride, with a CS2 twist. The map allows players to control a chicken equipped with an M249 machine gun in an endless runner-style game where they "Dodge Zappers, Lasers and Missiles in an endless runner to get a high score!". And this map is also the main focus of this controversy.

Cover Image of JETPACK JOYCHICKEN (Image Source: Steam Workshop Image by Lillykyu)

ESL’s Unauthorized Video Upload

To promote her JETPACK JOYCHICKEN creation, Lillykyu uploaded a video to her YouTube channel showcasing the gameplay and highlighting the fun mechanics of the map. However, it wasn’t long before Lillykyu noticed something strange.

In a now-private video, ESL had reuploaded her content on their own YouTube channel, without giving any formal credit to the creator. The only piece of credit that ESL did give was a tiny piece of text with her name within the video itself, with no links to Lillykyu's socials or Steam Workshop page. This blatant act of content theft immediately drew the ire of Lillykyu, who took to X to call ESL out on their unethical behavior.

Lillykyu’s public outcry quickly gained traction within the CS2 community. Fans and fellow creators rallied behind her, condemning ESL’s actions. With some even recommending her to DMCA strike the video.

When Strafe Esports approached Lillykyu for a statement on the matter, she responded,

“I think I’ve pretty much said everything publicly but I just think they are lazy and greedy stealing others' content, they could have at least just asked for permission.”

ESL’s Response—or Lack Thereof

Since the backlash erupted, ESL quietly made the video private on their YouTube channel. However, the damage was already done. Lillykyu further added to her response, speculating that ESL’s decision to make the video private, rather than addressing the situation publicly, was a way to avoid further attention to the matter

As of now, ESL has not reached out to Lillykyu directly to resolve the issue. The silence from such a prominent figure in the esports world has left many in the community feeling disheartened. The situation highlights the power imbalance between large organizations like ESL and independent creators, who often lack the resources to fight back when their work is exploited.

The Need for Accountability

The CS2 community is closely watching to see how ESL will handle the situation moving forward. While the video has been made private, many feel this is not enough. Creators like Lillykyu deserve recognition and respect for their hard work, and it is essential that esports organizations operate with transparency and fairness.

We at Strafe Esports stand in support of Lillykyu and encourage ESL to take the appropriate steps to rectify this situation. Creators are the lifeblood of the gaming community, and they deserve better than to have their content used without permission for profit. It’s time for ESL to make things right.

To check out more of Lillykyu's workshop creations, click HERE.

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Featured Image Source: Strafe Esports rizegeeko, ESL (original)

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