Atari had been planning a assault on file-sharers, but it appears the game maker would rather keep their street cred with gamers intact after opting to halt the proceedings.

A law firm had been hired to go after players illegally sharing copies of Race07, the publisher demanding compensation or threatening court. This initiative, it seems, is now over.

Apparently, the pressures of the global economic scene have persuaded to retreat, less they risk alienating their customers.

While lawyers Davenport Lyons have been relieved of their duties, it is unclear whether or not another firm will be employed in a similar role - it does, however, seem unlikely.

By Luke Guttridge