Artstorm Modern Warships Plagiarized 700 Dollar Aircraft Design [2026 Update]

As originally reported by Kotaku, mobile and PC naval combat developer Artstorm has come under intense scrutiny after incorporating concept artist Alex Jay Brady's 2014 original ekranoplan concept into Modern Warships without authorization. The developer subsequently monetized the asset within its digital storefront for an astounding $700. Responding to public outrage, Artstorm conceded that Brady's art was referenced without clearance. Brady noted that while the rendering quality was impressive, the underlying physics were completely unworkable, featuring engine exhausts washing across launch decks and backward-facing takeoff angles. This incident highlights growing concerns over uncredited intellectual property exploitation across live-service titles, drawing parallels to controversies seen when highlighted the extreme financial value placed on premium cosmetic assets. While Brady expressed openness to an amicable settlement if properly compensated, the high-profile blunder underscores developer vulnerability during asset pipeline outsourcing. Fans have voiced frustration over exorbitant microtransaction pricing models, which mirror aggressive retail markups highlighted in reports like .