WWE 2K15's community creations tool allows for players to upload all kinds of custom content. Like content related to ex-wrestler and murderer Chris Benoit, specifically his face.
From Reddit (via Uproxx), fans are now learning the hard way that using Benoit's likeness in the game is (apparently) considered a breach of the game's code of conduct, with one user receiving a two week ban for uploading a community creation featuring Benoit's face.
Gooooood morning, WWE Games Universe!!!
— WWE 2K (@WWEgames) December 4, 2014
@corybundick I just checked your account. You were banned because you uploaded a Chris Benoit face to community creations. — Marcus Stephenson (@stephensonmc) December 4, 2014
In case you are wondering, Stephenson is a community manager for 2K Games. Though he does shine some light on the ban and attempts to resolve the situation, there are still a number of questions. Where exactly in the terms and conditions does it say "Cannot use Chris Benoit's face"? Stephenson says because the game is a WWE product it should be obvious for players why Benoit is no-no, but to players like the one above it's not so obvious.
Having Benoit appear in game definitely puts the WWE in a bit of a tight spot. Benoit murdered his wife and son prior to committing suicide in 2007. While his matches can still be watched on WWE Network, viewers can't search for his name. The community creations tool in WWE, however, allows players to make nearly any character imaginable, from Charles Manson to Hitler. Stephenson insists that people uploading Hitler creations will also be receiving bans, but where exactly is the line drawn?
It definitely makes for an interesting situation. If you don't want to be banned from the creation tool, best just to stay clear from uploading content related to murderers. If you promise, you can even use this handy guide on how to upload all your content. Don't make me regret this.
