The Copycat Game Controversy - Official Statement & Community Response

On December 18, 2025, the Road-Side Shawarma team (@nv1sh and @armclipping) released the following official statement in their Discord server:

"Time to raise awareness and speak up about this situation."

"Some of our community members already know about this, and its been for us hard to ignore. There's a copy of our game that is using our likeness and gaining more attention than we do, and its been really hard to do something about it."

"The developer tries to hide the fact that it's stolen. The description says something about experience creation date, which is false information - you can use the created places in advance to make it look like you've made the game earlier."

"We wouldn't be speaking about this if the game was actually much better than ours and there was a reason why it has more attention than us - Its not. Its a poorly designed, poorly scripted attempt to mimic our experience, and we think that there's a need to spread this word around. People deserve to know about our game."

"If you know Road-Side Shawarma, you know about the copy. And we would more than appreciate it if you would tell this to anyone."

"December update soon btw ^^"

Key Points from the Statement

Why This Matters

The copycat game isn't just competing - it's actively misleading players into thinking it's the original. Many players discover the copy first, play it, then never find the authentic Road-Side Shawarma experience that has:

• Better game design and mechanics
• Active developer engagement
• Regular updates and improvements
• The original vision and quality
• The authentic horror atmosphere

The Creation Date Deception Explained

On December 25, 2025, developer nv1sh released a detailed explanation addressing confusion about Roblox experience creation dates:

"For you to know about 'Created' info on Roblox' Experience Page:

"That means when the place was CREATED in Roblox's database, not when it got RELEASED. It means you can just create a plane baseplate and forget about it. Then, whenever you want, update it and release to public. The 'Created' will still says the date when place was originally created."

"That's the reason why I have Dev./Working places and then reupload my games as a different experience: for people to better understand when the game was released."

How Copycat Games Exploit This

The Tactic:

1. Create an empty placeholder experience in early 2024
2. Wait for Road-Side Shawarma to become popular (Oct 2025)
3. Copy the successful game into the old placeholder
4. Publish it with the fake "Created: August 2024" date
5. Claim they made it first

What the Dates Mean:

Proof in nv1sh's Experience List

The screenshot shows nv1sh's development process:

• Road-Side Shawarma [HORROR] - Last Edited: 12/18/2025, Date Created: 10/01/2025 ✅
• RSS: December Update Dev Place - Private development environment
• RSS: Characters - Testing environment
• Peak Games [UPDATE] - Previous project
• Kebab Horror - Working Place - Development workspace

Notice: nv1sh keeps separate Dev/Working places (private) and then creates the public experience when ready. This is why the "Created" date matches the actual launch date - it's honest development.

Developer's Stance

"I hope you understand this and will not protect the direct copy"

"That is really hard for our team to watch that some AI slop that was made with no effort just got lucky on OUR OWN hype, stealing our players and things that we deserved."

"We have literally been giving everything to make Road-Side Shawarma, sacrificing our sleep, time and not only that just to make game as good as we can."

Why This Matters

Players looking at creation dates might think:

• ❌ "The copycat was made in August 2024, so it's the original"
• ✅ Reality: It's a placeholder from 2024, copied from RSS in October 2025+

Always look for:

1. Developer name: nv1sh works
2. Game quality: Polished vs poorly scripted
3. Community: Active Discord with developers
4. Updates: Regular, engaged development
5. Authenticity: Original artwork (not AI)

What is the Copycat Game?

Based on community discussions, the primary copycat game is called "Shawarma Kiosk" or "Shawarma Anomalies" created by a developer from Russia.

Deceptive Tactics Used

1. Fake Creation Dates

• Uses placeholder experiences created in August 2024
• Developed and published AFTER Road-Side Shawarma became popular
• Tries to appear as if it was created first

2. AI-Generated Content

• Uses AI to modify the original game's thumbnail
• Creates "original-looking" assets by putting the real game through AI
• Cheaper production with stolen concepts

3. Misleading Marketing

• Copies game mechanics and rules
• Uses similar names to confuse searchers
• Attempts to appear as the "official" version

How to Spot the Difference

Community Identification

From Discord discussions, players have noted:

"The copy has a button to open the window, the original you just throw to the window" - Different mechanics

"They used AI for the thumbnail too" - Visual deception

"It's a poorly designed, poorly scripted attempt" - Quality difference is clear

The Visibility Problem

One of the most painful aspects of this situation is that major content creators played the copycat game instead of the original, giving it massive visibility.

Confirmed Cases from Community Reports

Flamingo (Albert)

• One of Roblox's biggest YouTubers
• Played the copycat version
• Community reaction: "Flamingo also did one on the copy 🥀"

Kub Scouts

• Popular Roblox horror game YouTuber
• Also played the copycat
• Community: "like kub scouts i was so disappointed cuz the og is better"

Other Content Creators

• Multiple smaller YouTubers featured the copy
• Many didn't realize there was an original
• Their audiences discovered the wrong game first

Community Sentiment

Discord community members expressed their frustration:

"I hate that SO many of my favorite people have played and gave attention to the copy and not the actual game, it's genuinely so sad bro" - @raigebait_number1fan_15549

"bro that video made me thought it was rss 😭🥀 Same, I reposted thinking it was about RSS, but no, it's about the copy🥀🥀🥀" - @.carkovski

"I got a little disappointed when I see so many comments mentioning about shawarma kiosk instead of Roadside 😢.." - Community member

"'Shawarma kiosk mentioned!!' not that fuckass game dud... 💔" - Community frustration

The Discovery Problem

When players search for "shawarma horror game" on YouTube:

1. They find videos about the copycat first (more views)
2. They play the copycat thinking it's the original
3. They never discover the authentic Road-Side Shawarma
4. The original creators lose potential players and support

This creates a vicious cycle where the copycat's visibility increases while the original struggles to reach its rightful audience.

The DMCA Attempt

The development team tried to take legal action but faced significant obstacles:

"We tried to DMCA, but Roblox rejected us saying that its not enough proof to take it down."

Why the DMCA Failed

Roblox's Requirements:

• Must prove direct asset theft (not just concept copying)
• Must own the trademarked name being used
• "Shawarma" is a widely used term - hard to claim ownership
• Gameplay concepts are difficult to protect legally

Geographic Complications

From Discord developer discussions:

The Situation:

• Copycat developer: Based in Russia
• Original developer (nv1sh): Based in Ukraine
• Current context: Ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine

Developer statement:

"Russia ignores any lawsuit from Ukraine due to some circumstances" - @armclipping

Additional Challenges:

"we can't hire lawyers because we won't survive a lawsuit against Roblox (everything will go through Roblox, there's not an option to sue the exact developer)" - @armclipping

Financial Reality

Developer team position:

• Solo/small team independent developers
• Can't afford expensive legal representation
• Would need to sue through Roblox as intermediary
• Legal costs would exceed any potential recovery

Community suggestion:

"this game can def put a band or 2 for a session lol" - Suggestion to hire lawyer

Developer response:

"and this game can def put a band or 2 for a session lol and it would be a good investment regardless for the game since it would boost their CCU"

But the reality is more complex than just having money for one session.

The Only Option Left

"we tried to dmca, the only optional thing left for us is to just tell everything and everyone about this" - @armclipping

The team's only recourse is community awareness and support.

Official Request from Developers

The development team is asking for community support:

"If you know Road-Side Shawarma, you know about the copy. And we would more than appreciate it if you would tell this to anyone."

Ways to Support the Original

1. Spread Awareness

• Share this article and the official statement
• Tell friends about the REAL Road-Side Shawarma
• Correct people who mention the copycat
• Post on social media with proper credits

2. Community Education

• Link to this wiki when discussing the game
• Always mention the developer name: "nv1sh works"
• Direct new players to the original game
• Share comparison information

3. Content Creator Outreach

• Comment on copycat videos explaining the situation
• Request favorite YouTubers to play the ORIGINAL
• Share links to the authentic game
• Tag creators who played the wrong version

4. Report (If Appropriate)

• Only report if you believe there's legitimate rule violations
• Don't engage in harassment or mass false reports
• Focus on education rather than attacking the copycat

Community Proposals

Mass Awareness Campaign:

"MASS REPORT THE GAME 🔥🔥🔥🔥" - Community member

Developer consideration:

"maybe I should put out a reward for making popular community posts about this" - @armclipping

Why Original is Better

Help others understand why Road-Side Shawarma is superior:

✅ Better Gameplay:

• Satisfying cooking mechanics (throw directly to window)
• Polished horror atmosphere
• Smooth interactions and controls
• Unique monsters like the Cultist

✅ Active Development:

• Regular updates with new content
• December Update in progress despite challenges
• Developer engagement on Discord
• Community feedback incorporated

✅ No AI, No Theft:

• Original artwork by talented artists
• Authentic game design and vision
• Ethically created content
• Supports independent developers

✅ Community:

• Active Discord with developers
• Helpful player community
• Lore discussions and theories
• Official wiki and guides (this site!)

Share the Truth

When you see discussions about shawarma horror games:

• ✅ Mention: "The original is Road-Side Shawarma by nv1sh works"
• ✅ Link: Share this wiki or the Roblox game page
• ✅ Explain: "The other one is a poorly made copy with AI thumbnails"
• ✅ Support: "Play the original to support the real creators!"

Developer Commitment

Despite this setback, the team remains committed:

"December update soon btw ^^"

Developer Context

From Discord discussions, we learned about the challenging development environment:

nv1sh's Situation:

"im sorry boy making an update, i have little time to do something since mostly i sit with no lights on" - @nv1sh

The developer is working in difficult conditions (likely power outages due to the conflict) but continues to develop the game.

Team Plans:

"nv1sh tries to do everything in time because he will be in another country on the holidays, and I'll be in college" - @armclipping

What's Coming

December Update Progress:

• New lobby/interior environments
• Improved character models
• Enhanced death animations
• Visual quality improvements across the board
• Night 4 and possibly more content

See our December 2025 Development Sneak Peeks for full details.

Why This Matters

The fact that developers are:

• Working through power outages
• Continuing development despite copycat stress
• Maintaining communication with community
• Still delivering quality updates

...shows their dedication to the original vision and the community that supports them.

Support Through Playing

The best way to support the original creators:

1. Play the authentic Road-Side Shawarma
2. Leave positive reviews and ratings
3. Invite friends to join you
4. Purchase game passes if you want to support financially
5. Join the Discord community
6. Share your positive experiences

How to Ensure You're Playing the Original

Official Game Page:

• Roblox Game: Search "Road-Side Shawarma" and look for "nv1sh works" as developer
• Creation Date: October 1, 2025 (actual launch date)

Official Social Media:

• Twitter/X: @nv1sh (Main Developer)
• Twitter/X: @crux_dev (Contributor - December Update)

Official Community:

• Discord: Available through the Roblox game page
• This Wiki: RoadsideShawarma.com (you're here!)

Verification Checklist

Before playing a "shawarma horror game," verify:

✅ Developer name is "nv1sh works"
✅ Game has 70M+ visits and growing
✅ Active Discord community with developers
✅ Regular updates and community engagement
✅ Original artwork (not AI-generated)
✅ Polished gameplay with satisfying mechanics

❌ Avoid games with:

• Different developer names
• Suspicious "earlier" creation dates
• AI-generated thumbnails
• Poor quality scripts and design
• Little to no community presence

Bookmark the Original

Save these links to always find the authentic game:

• This official wiki (RoadsideShawarma.com)
• The Roblox game page (search "Road-Side Shawarma by nv1sh works")
• Official Twitter accounts (@nv1sh, @crux_dev)
• Official Discord (linked on game page)

The Community Stands Together

After the official announcement, Discord community members rallied to support the original game:

Awareness Support:

"we support the shawarma when we need to (as a syrian/palestinian i am obligated to help the shawarma)" - @exquitisy2

Quality Recognition:

"og is better by a long shot at least i can throw the lettuce everywhere" - @fartamane

"The og is better because it has the cultist and it doesn't support ai" - @raigebait_number1fan_15549

Frustration with the Situation:

"Ts is pissing me off" - Community reaction to copycat success

"I hate that SO many of my favorite people have played and gave attention to the copy" - Player sentiment

Hope for the Future:

"maybe after the update you'll bring in more players or just hope their game will die down" - @heroiwn

Community Strategy:

"I'm trying to bring awareness to the community" - @armclipping

"maybe I should put out a reward for making popular community posts about this" - Developer considering incentives

The Community Mission

The Road-Side Shawarma community has united around a common goal:

• Educate new players about the original
• Support the authentic creators
• Spread accurate information
• Protect the game's reputation
• Build awareness through word-of-mouth

Your Voice Matters

Every community member who:

• Shares the truth about the original
• Directs friends to the real game
• Explains the situation in comments
• Supports the developers through engagement

...makes a difference in ensuring the authentic Road-Side Shawarma gets the recognition it deserves.

Developer's Important Clarification

On Christmas Day 2025, nv1sh released an important clarification to avoid misunderstandings:

"For clarification to better understand my words: I was talking about all of the AI copies in general, and don't want to say the names as a secure way to not start a hate wave towards them."

The Real Problem: AI Slop Copies

Not targeting specific games:

"I know many of you thought about THAT ONE GAME, but I had all of my questions asked before, not gonna lie - sometimes it is hard for me to spectate and time to time be angry about, but in the end that's life and that's okay that some games can outcome others, I totally understand this and don't want any hate waves or something like that, as well I do not consider them a copy."

What bothers the team:

"The reason I don't like the AI copies (excluding THAT ONE game) is the fact that is just a disrespect towards me and my team, as we are spending everything as I've stated before."

The Distinction

✅ Inspired Games (OK):

• Games influenced by Road-Side Shawarma's concept
• Created with effort and original assets
• May compete fairly and succeed
• Developer respects these: "I've seen some good 'copies' and I'm not DMCAing them or anything like that, cuz I like 'em by myself"

❌ AI Slop Copies (Problem):

• Made with minimal effort using AI generation
• Directly stealing assets and putting through AI
• Fake creation dates to deceive
• Disrespectful to the original team's sacrifices
• These are the target of awareness campaigns

DMCA Status Update

Roblox's Response:

"Even as of right now Roblox declines DMCA about some AI copies games saying: 'We are unable to identify the exact infringing content, could you please provide your claims with some more in game markers'"

Team's Response:

"(I know, we need more proofs, we'll continue giving them)"

The legal battle continues, but it requires concrete evidence of asset theft, not just concept similarity.

Developer's Life Philosophy

"I have all of my life's goals/plans done, and I'm moving towards continuing completing them"

Despite the challenges, nv1sh remains focused on personal growth and game development, accepting that some competition is natural while standing against disrespectful theft.

What This Means for Players

• Don't harass other games - The developer doesn't want hate waves
• Focus on supporting the original - Positive action over negative attacks
• Understand the difference - Inspired ≠ AI copied
• Spread awareness calmly - Education, not aggression
• Let quality speak - The original will shine through authentic development

Help Spread the Word - Get Paid!

The development team is seeking talented video creators to help promote the game:

What They Need:

• TikTok video announcing the December Update
• Developer will provide voice narration
• You handle: gameplay recording, editing, TikTok formula optimization

Compensation:

• Payment via Robux (preferred) OR Cash
• Set your own price based on your work
• Must show previous video portfolio

Requirements:

• Send previous videos you've made
• DM the developer directly on Discord
• Professional quality expected

Why This Matters:

This is a chance to:

1. Get paid for supporting your favorite game
2. Help the original gain more visibility
3. Showcase your video editing skills
4. Join the team in fighting back against copycats
5. Be part of the December Update launch

How to Apply

1. Join the official Discord server (link on Roblox game page)
2. Prepare your portfolio of previous videos
3. DM @nv1sh with your samples and price quote
4. If selected, you'll receive the voice narration and game footage
5. Create the video following TikTok best practices
6. Get paid after approval!

What Makes a Good TikTok Video

Format:

• 15-60 seconds for maximum engagement
• Hook in first 3 seconds
• Fast-paced editing with cuts every 2-3 seconds
• Trending audio or custom narration
• Captions for accessibility

Content:

• Showcase December Update features
• Highlight what's NEW (Night 4, 5, Christmas Event, Skins)
• Show satisfying gameplay moments
• Create urgency ("Available NOW")
• Include clear call-to-action

Optimization:

• Post at peak hours (7-9 PM local time)
• Use relevant hashtags: #Roblox #RobloxHorror #RoadsideShawarma
• Tag major creators who played the game
• Engage with comments quickly

This is your chance to help the original game while getting paid for your skills!

A Heartfelt Thank You

On Christmas Day 2025, nv1sh took a moment to address the community with gratitude:

"Merry Christmas y'all! I hope it is for everyone now."

"I hope you'll spend or already have spent a wonderful quality time with your family or by yourself. I don't really know what to say much, really, but I just want to wish you to enjoy this day!"

"Thank you for being with me & as well as supporting us, we really love you all and appreciate everything you do for us 🎄❤️"

The Human Side of Development

Behind every game controversy, update struggle, and legal challenge, there are real people:

The Sacrifices:

• Working through power outages in Ukraine
• Sacrificing sleep and personal time
• Dealing with copycat stress during holidays
• Maintaining positivity despite setbacks
• Continuing to engage with community

The Gratitude:

• Appreciation for community support
• Recognition of player loyalty
• Value for every person who spreads awareness
• Thanks for understanding the challenges
• Love for the Road-Side Shawarma family

Community Response

The community reciprocated with their own holiday wishes and continued support:

"Merry Christmas to you too! Thank you for creating such an amazing game!"

"We'll always support the original, no matter what copycats try to do"

"Your hard work shows in every update. Stay strong!"

The Bigger Picture

This Christmas message reminds us:

• Games are made by people - Real humans with challenges
• Community matters - Support means everything to indie developers
• Positivity persists - Even amid controversy and conflict
• Gratitude is mutual - Developers appreciate us as much as we appreciate them
• Family is important - Both real family and gaming community family

Moving Forward Together

As we head into 2026:

• The December Update is live and amazing
• The community is stronger than ever
• Copycat awareness is spreading
• Legal efforts continue with more evidence
• The original Road-Side Shawarma continues to shine

Together, we ensure that quality, authenticity, and hard work triumph over cheap AI copies and deception.

🎄 Merry Christmas from the Road-Side Shawarma community! ❤️