In the world of video games, there are many different types of games that can be played on various platforms such as consoles, computers, and mobile devices. One type of game that has gained popularity in recent years is the licensed video game. So, what exactly is a licensed video game? In this article, we will explore the legalities of licensed video games and understand how they work.
What are Licensed Video Games?
Licensed video games are video games that use elements from existing franchises such as movies, TV shows, books, and other forms of media. These games are created by developers who have obtained the rights to use these elements in their games. For example, a video game based on the Harry Potter franchise would be a licensed video game because it uses elements from the books and movies.
The Benefits of Licensed Video Games
There are many benefits to creating licensed video games. One of the biggest advantages is that they have a built-in fan base. This means that there are already people who are interested in the media being used and may be more likely to play the game. This can lead to increased sales and revenue for the developer.
The Risks of Licensed Video Games
Despite the many benefits, licensed video games can also come with risks. One of the biggest risks is that the game may not live up to the expectations of the fans. If the game does not accurately represent the original media or if it fails to deliver on the promises made in its marketing, it could damage the brand and turn off potential players.
Case Studies: Examples of Licensed Video Games
To help illustrate the legalities and benefits of licensed video games, let’s take a look at a few examples.
Pokémon Franchise
The Pokémon franchise is one of the most successful examples of licensed video games. The Pokémon game was created by Nintendo and it uses elements from the popular anime and manga series.
Star Wars Franchise
Another example is the Star Wars franchise, which has been used in numerous video games over the years. These games have been successful in generating revenue for the franchise, but they have also been subject to copyright infringement lawsuits due to disputes over how certain elements from the original media were being used.
2013 Lucasfilm vs EA Lawsuit
In 2013, Lucasfilm sued EA for trademark and copyright infringement, claiming that EA’s Star Wars game, Battlefront II, included elements that violated their intellectual property. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, with EA agreeing to pay a undisclosed amount in damages and make changes to the game to address the concerns raised by Lucasfilm.
The Final Verdict
In conclusion, licensed video games can be a great way to tap into an already established fan base and generate revenue for developers. However, it’s important to understand the legalities of these games and obtain the proper permissions and licenses to avoid any legal issues. By doing so, developers can create successful games that both entertain players and promote the original media.
