How CSGO’s M4A4 Griffin almost became the next contraband Howl

Within the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive ecosystem, only two items have ever achieved the prestigious Contraband classification. While most players recognize the M4A4 Howl’s legendary status, few understand how the M4A4 Griffin nearly followed the same path to extreme rarity and value.

The Contraband designation represents Valve’s ultimate response to copyright infringement cases, permanently removing items from circulation while allowing existing copies to retain tradable status. This creates artificial scarcity that dramatically impacts market economics.

Understanding the distinction between these two copyright incidents provides crucial insights into Valve’s content moderation policies and skin investment strategies.

Back in 2014, a creative team submitted an M4A4 weapon skin design to the Steam Workshop featuring striking visual elements that immediately captured community attention. The design showcased a fierce flaming wolf motif that stood out for its bold artistic execution and premium appearance.

The skin quickly gained approval from Valve’s curation team and entered the Huntsman case loot tables. Its popularity surged as players appreciated the distinctive aesthetic that differentiated it from other available options.

However, investigations soon revealed that the submitted artwork constituted intellectual property theft. Original creator Andreas Mass pursued legal action through a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) takedown notice against Valve for unauthorized usage of his creative work.

This landmark case marked the first instance of copyright enforcement within CS:GO’s skin economy. Despite claims of unintentional infringement from the submission team Auzzii and sic, Valve implemented immediate corrective measures.

The company removed not only the Howl but also additional skins connected to the creators from various loot tables. More significantly, Valve assigned the Contraband classification to the M4A4 Howl, ensuring it would never again appear as match rewards or case openings.

Existing inventory remained with players while Valve deployed a design update that modified the artwork, presumably resolving the copyright dispute. The accompanying Howling Dawn sticker received similar treatment to maintain visual consistency.

When the Vanguard Collection launched, the M4A4 Griffin encountered similar copyright challenges. Unlike the Howl situation, Valve opted for a redesign strategy that altered the griffin imagery to eliminate infringement concerns.

Market speculators anticipating another Contraband designation triggered rapid price inflation for the Griffin skin. However, Valve maintained its revised design approach without implementing the permanent removal associated with Contraband status.

The critical distinction lies in the Griffin’s classification as a Restricted-tier skin with substantially higher drop probability compared to the Howl’s Covert status.

The M4A4 Howl originally featured an exceptionally low .64% acquisition chance from CS:GO cases. Meanwhile, the Griffin’s 15% drop rate created widespread distribution before copyright issues emerged.

This circulation disparity fundamentally influenced Valve’s decision-making process. Designating the Griffin as Contraband would have created market instability affecting thousands of existing owners.

Valve’s differentiated approach to these copyright incidents reveals a sophisticated content management strategy. The company balances legal compliance with market preservation and community expectations.

Another strategic consideration involves discouraging malicious behavior patterns. If Valve consistently converted copyright-infringing skins to Contraband status, it might incentivize bad actors to intentionally submit stolen artwork while hoarding inventory.

The economic implications extend beyond individual skin values. Widespread Contraband designations could undermine player confidence in the entire skin economy and Steam Marketplace integrity.

For collectors and investors, this policy framework creates predictable parameters for assessing potential high-value acquisitions. Understanding the intersection of rarity, copyright status, and Valve’s historical responses provides valuable investment intelligence.

Successful skin investment requires analyzing multiple risk factors beyond surface appearance. The copyright history of similar designs, submission patterns of creators, and Valve’s established response precedents all contribute to informed decision-making.

When evaluating potential acquisitions, consider the creator’s submission history and any previous copyright issues. Research the original artwork sources when possible to identify potential infringement risks.

Monitor community discussions and workshop submissions for patterns that might indicate future copyright challenges. Early identification of potential Contraband candidates can yield substantial returns if acquired before official designation.

However, exercise caution against over-speculation based purely on copyright rumors. Valve’s inconsistent response history means not every infringement leads to Contraband status.

With Valve expanding CS:GO’s cosmetic ecosystem through additional items, stickers, patches, and sprays, the potential for future Contraband designations remains present. Stay informed about copyright developments within the gaming content creation community.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » How CSGO’s M4A4 Griffin almost became the next contraband Howl Exploring the dramatic story behind CS:GO's rarest skin and why the Griffin narrowly avoided Contraband status