The indie gaming scene loves a good underdog story, but Schedule 1’s rise to stardom might come with a price. Just weeks after becoming one of the most-played games on Steam, the gritty drug-dealing simulator is now under investigation for alleged copyright infringement.

According to a legal notice uncovered by Insider Gaming, Polish publisher Movie Games S.A., the studio behind Drug Dealer Simulator and its sequel, has launched an official investigation into Schedule 1 developer TVGS. The concern? That the game may be a little too inspired by their own IP.

The document, titled “MOVIE GAMES SA (17/2025)”, claims that Schedule 1 may have committed "an act of unfair competition” and possibly infringed on Drug Dealer Simulator’s intellectual property. Reportedly, the investigation will focus on similarities in plot, gameplay mechanics, and UI design, core components that could suggest deeper copying rather than mere coincidence.

While Schedule 1 has captured headlines for its viral success, especially thanks to TikTok buzz and streamer hype, its concept closely mirrors that of Drug Dealer Simulator, which built its own cult following over the past few years. The sudden spotlight may have drawn more than just players, legal eyes are now watching closely.

So far, TVGS has remained silent, and no legal action has been taken beyond this initial investigation. Still, if the claim gains traction, this could turn into one of the more high-profile indie clashes we’ve seen in a while, similar in tone to the Mobile Legends vs. League of Legends

For now, Schedule 1 remains available on Steam, but its future could hinge on the outcome of this IP dispute. One thing’s clear: success in the indie scene often comes with unexpected heat.