As part of a project commissioned by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, the Copyright Overseas Distribution Alliance (CODA) developed a card game called “HIT PLAN” that teaches through gameplay for children and adults. It enables players to understand both content creation and the issues surrounding its infringement.
This game incorporates familiar forms of content—such as films, animation, manga, and games—along with elements related to infringement, as an educational tool to deepen understanding of copyright infringement (piracy). It is designed so that players can experientially learn about the realities of piracy in the distribution and expansion of content, as well as the processes involved in addressing it.
By enjoying the game together with others, players can visualize the spread of copyrighted content and the issues surrounding infringement as matters with direct impact upon them.
In HIT PLAN, players can learn about the significance of multi-media content expansion—including film, publishing, games, and merchandise—as well as anti-piracy measures, while thinking strategically throughout the game. The game is produced in both Japanese and English, and is therefore expected to be used in various contexts around the world.
The game design for HIT PLAN was created by Seiji Kanai, an analog game designer active both in Japan and internationally. The illustrations and game development for production were managed by the popular manga artist and illustrator Keiichi Arawi.Graphic design of the game components was undertaken by Sai Beppu.
In coming months
CODA is considering distributing HIT PLAN to children’s facilities and similar institutions. In addition, the Agency for Cultural Affairs plans to publish Print-and-Play PDF data on its website, allowing individuals to print and cut out the materials themselves to enjoy the game.
At Game Market 2026 Spring, to be held at Makuhari Messe on May 23–24, 2026, CODA and the Agency for Cultural Affairs will jointly exhibit a booth and sell a limited run of 1,500 copies (2,000 yen, tax included).
The game is not planned to be sold online or through retail stores. (Piracy Monitor would respectfully suggest giving it away!)
Why it matters
As Japanese-origin content such as manga and anime has gained increasing global popularity, damage caused by piracy on the internet has been escalating on a worldwide scale. Against this backdrop, it has become increasingly important—particularly for younger generations—to promote understanding of the importance of legitimate content distribution and the societal impact of copyright infringement.
Creators and related professionals devote significant time, cost, and passion to producing their works. At the same time, damage caused by piracy has a serious negative impact on the sustainability of such creative activities and on the development of the content industry. Through awareness-raising activities utilizing this card game, CODA will continue working to help more people recognize copyright infringement issues as something closer to them and to promote broader awareness of copyright protection throughout society.
Further reading
CODA develops “HIT PLAN,” a card game on content creation and copyright infringement. Press release. March 27, 2026. CODA (Copyright Overseas Distribution Association)
