Robotech fans slam Harmony Gold for prohibiting DYRL & future Macross sequels with shared characters, mecha, or storyline

In the vast realm of science fiction and anime, few franchises have captured the hearts of fans worldwide quite like Robotech and Macross.

These iconic series have left an indelible mark on the genre, giving rise to a dedicated fanbase. However, conflicts have arisen between Robotech fans and Harmony Gold, the company that controls its US distribution rights.

The announcement that split two fanbases appears to have been made at the San Diego Comic-Con 2023, starting the dispute.

Robotech fans slam Harmony Gold for prohibiting DYRL & future Macross sequels

The issue lies in Harmony Gold’s protective ownership of the Robotech license in the United States.

And the company has banned the release of DYRL and Macross sequels that share characters, mecha, or plotlines with the Robotech universe, thus sparking an outrage (1,2,3,4,5).

This is why piracy exists because of companies like #HarmonyGold . Nothing will ever change. #Fuckharmonygold #Macroos #Robotech #SDCC #SDCC2023 #80s #anime
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Three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and Harmony Gold making sure people can’t enjoy the franchises they buy the rights to.
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The Macross sequels and adaptations continue to be produced in Japan. But Harmony Gold still holds the rights to Robotech’s characters, mecha, and storylines in the U.S.

So, this has led to the company blocking the release of any Macross material that shares elements with the Robotech universe, including the highly acclaimed film DYRL.

Robotech fans now argue that this approach stifles the growth of the franchise. Moreover, some also blame companies like Harmony Gold for promoting piracy.

Harmony Gold officially endorses anime piracy
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The dispute between Robotech fans and Harmony Gold for prohibiting DYRL and future Macross sequels has undeniably ignited a firestorm of controversy within the anime community.

With the legacy of these iconic series at stake, finding a resolution that appeases both parties seems challenging for now.

But we hope that a compromise can be reached to bridge the gap between the two fan bases.

That said, we’ll keep tabs on this issue and update our article accordingly.

Featured and inline image source: Robotech

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