Sega's been around a long time, and at this point they're known for two things: bringing the world joy, or grief. If you need any more proof, just look at the differences between the Sega Dreamcast, and Sonic Unleashed. With the good news that was Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, I guess Sega finally decided to bring some bad news, too: in the form of a lawsuit, to the doorsteps of Level-5, for infringement.

Level-5, known for the upcoming Studio Ghibli collaboration Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch, as well as the popular Professor Layton series, Dark Cloud series, and this author's much beloved TRPG Jeanne d'Arc, are also known for a popular RPG soccer game in Japan named Inazuma Eleven. According to Yomiuri, Sega is claiming Level-5 infringed upon two of their patents, with technology that allows players to manipulate characters with their fingers on the Nintendo DS screen. With reportedly more than 300 million units sold for the series, this lawsuit could mean about 900 million yen in royalties for Sega if Sega wins.

Level-5 is disputing the claim, saying "We will prepare a rebuttal, and decline to comment at this time."

We'll keep you updated as this case unfolds. For more news, stay tuned to DualShockers.com.