Updated : If you're wondering how to patent a game, the first thing you need to know is that you can't patent a game idea, just like you cannot copyright an idea for a book. To patent a game, you'll need a detailed design and it must meet certain criteria to ensure your concept meets the patent test.
How do I protect my game idea?
Patents are registered through the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Basically, a patent is designed to protect your idea/invention from being copied. During development, a patent ensures no one can take your idea and use it as their own. Registered copyrights are another form of legal protection.
How much does it cost to copyright a game?
Pay the non-refundable filing fee of $35, $55 or $85 (depending on your application) Give the Copyright Office copies of the board game you want to register for them to keep. Hope that your application is approved and you receive a certificate of copyright registration!
Can video games be copyrighted?
Instead, video games are considered protected by copyright in their parts. The computer code or other fixed medium is considered copyrightable, and the game's presentation can be copyrighted as a literary work or dramatic work, while elements like character design, art and sound and music can also be copyrighted.
Should you copyright your game?
You don't have a legal obligation to register your finished game or copyrightable elements with the U.S. Copyright Office, but it can help when dealing with infringers in court. Another option is to register your game and its elements on the U.S. Copyright Office website.
Should I patent a game idea?
Patents are very expensive, so it's important to research the cost ahead of time. Because it can take years to receive a patent, you must have the dedication for the process and your game should have a long lifespan. If the game is only popular for a year, it is not necessarily worth applying.
Can you copyright an idea for a game?
Copyright does not protect the idea for game, its name or title, or the method or methods for playing it. Nor does copyright protect any idea, system, method, device, or trademark material involved in developing, merchandising, or playing a game.
How much does it cost to patent a game idea?
Utility Patent if you board game has some software/technology/function built-in, you may consider a utility patent filing. A Utility Patent will enable you to exclude others from making, selling, or using your patented technology for a period of 20 years. Average Price for a Utility Patent filing $5000-$6500.
Can you copyright a game?
The US Copyright Office specifically states that “Copyright does not protect the idea for a game, its name or title, or the method or methods for playing it. Nor does copyright protect any idea, system, method, device, or trademark material involved in developing, merchandising, or playing a game.”
How do I copyright a video game?
- Go to the U.S. Copyright Office website.
- Select Register.
- Go to the appropriate section—depending on what you want to register.
- Click on Register.
- Create an account with the U.S. Copyright Office or Log in to your existing one.
- Choose Copyright Registration.
- Pick Register a New Claim.