Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/sony-america-trademarks-greatness-awaits-points-to-ps4-slogan/#commentsSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan Sony's slogan for the PS4 may be "Greatness Awaits," based on a recent trademark and a purported ad leak. It's emerged Sony Computer Entertainment America trademarked the term last week, just ahead of next month's E3 conference. That on its own doesn't mean much, but it backs up Siliconera's prior report of a leaked script for a PS4 ad, with the term used as a slogan for the upcoming console.

The script, which Siliconera has in full, certainly resembles PlayStation's unique brand of surreal, high-octane advertising. It features a man walking down a road, talking at the camera and demanding the viewer not to be ordinary, afraid, or a slave to the past.

Around him buildings appear "increasingly damaged," and the scene grows more chaotic as windows break apart, two people covered in yellow paint sprint past him, and eventually a crowd of followers fall in line behind him. It even features a "homemade flag [sic] painted with the icon from Destiny" being unfurled out of a window, and a "giant spacecraft from Killzone" flying overhead.

The ad closes with the man saying, "Who are you to deny greatness? If you would deny it to yourself, you deny it to the entire world... And we will not be denied."

Then the words 'Greatness Awaits' appear on screen, followed or joined by 'PlayStation.'

We've reached out to Sony for comment.

JoystiqSony America trademarks 'Greatness Awaits,' points to PS4 slogan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greatness-awaitsplaystationps4sonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericatrademarkWed, 15 May 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shaq's licensing company trademarks 'Shaqfighter']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/shaqs-licensing-company-trademarks-shaqfighter/#comments
Mine O' Mine, the licensing company responsible for all things bearing the resemblance of the legendarily mononymous Shaq, has registered a trademark for "Shaqfighter." The trademark's Goods and Services qualifications cover the term for "providing online games" and "computer and video game characters," among many other purposes along that line, which leads us to believe that this is probably a video game thing.

Of course, when the words "Shaq" and "fighter" are thrown together in such close proximity, 1994's Shaq-fu immediately springs to mind for any of us old enough to remember it in all of its confusing, supernatural glory. Well, "glory." Here's hoping this new jam ends up being more than an Infinity Blade clone starring an endless bloodline of medieval Shaqs. Actually ...

JoystiqShaq's licensing company trademarks 'Shaqfighter' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>shaqshaq-fushaqfightertrademarkUSPTOWed, 15 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Level-5 registers three new, mysterious trademarks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/level-5-registers-three-new-mysterious-trademarks/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/level-5-registers-three-new-mysterious-trademarks/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/level-5-registers-three-new-mysterious-trademarks/#comments Level 5 has registered trademarks for three heretofore unannounced projects, Siliconera reports. Rare Drop Adventurer Note, Earth Devastating B-rank Girlfriend and Wonderflick were all trademarked by the developer around the same time, which may indicate that these titles collectively represent a third entry in Level 5's Guild series.

Beyond the fact that these trademarks were filed, however, nothing else is known about what these games might be, if they end up being games at all. Who knows, maybe Earth Devastating B-rank Girlfriend is a new magical girl anime from Level 5 and Studio Ghibli? Well, okay, probably not, but one can dream.

JoystiqLevel-5 registers three new, mysterious trademarks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Earth-Devastating-B-rank-Girlfriendlevel-5Rare-Drop-Adventurer-NotetrademarktrademarksWonderflickSat, 04 May 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remake]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/#comments Rumor Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remakeA recently registered trademark in Japan hints that Square Enix may be planning to remake its 2001 creature-battling RPG Dragon Quest Monsters 2.

The trademark for "Iru to Ruka no Fushigi na Fushigi na Kagi" - yes, that's two fushigis - translates to "Iru and Luca's Wonderful Mysterious Keys." Iru and Luka were the stars in the Game Boy Color's Dragon Quest Monsters 2.

Dragon Quest Monsters 2 was originally released as a set of two cartridges, as was the popular thing to do back when the Pokemon craze was at its peak. Each cart featured a different playable protagonist and its own unique set of collectible monsters, which players could trade with others via the Game Boy's link cable. Both versions were later released in North America as Dragon Warrior Monsters 2: Tara's Adventure and Cobi's Journey.

A remake of 1998's Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry's Wonderland launched for the Nintendo 3DS in Japan last year and met with stellar sales. The remade sequel will likely join its predecessor on the Nintendo 3DS, and the trademarked subtitle indicates that it will consolidate content from the two Game Boy Color releases.

A U.S. release for Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry's Wonderland 3D has not been announced.

JoystiqRumor: Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remake originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-questdragon-quest-monsters-2japansquare-enixtrademarkFri, 26 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Langdell's 'Edge' trademark canceled by court order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/langdells-edge-trademark-canceled-by-court-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/langdells-edge-trademark-canceled-by-court-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/langdells-edge-trademark-canceled-by-court-order/#comments Langdell's 'Edge' trademark canceled by court orderThe "Edge" trademark belonging to Edge Games founder Tim Langdell has been canceled by a court order, stripping Langdell of the ability to file suit against every other game developer and publisher who used the word "Edge" in any context.

Following a petition by DICE and EA (Mirror's Edge), the US Patent and Trademark Office officially issued notice of the cancelled registration on April 17, a process that has been ongoing since 2010. Two Tribes, publisher of Mobigame's Edge (pictured), celebrated by discounting all versions of the puzzle game 50%. Edge was taken down from the App Store repeatedly due to issues with the "Edge" trademark.

JoystiqLangdell's 'Edge' trademark canceled by court order originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidedgeedge-gamesiosipadmacmobilepctim-langdelltrademarkFri, 19 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kadokawa trademarks 'Demon Gaze' in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/kadokawa-trademarks-demon-gaze-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/kadokawa-trademarks-demon-gaze-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/08/kadokawa-trademarks-demon-gaze-in-us/#comments
Demon Gaze is a Vita dungeon crawler developed by Experience Inc. and published this year in Japan by Kadokawa Games. It would appear Kadokawa has an interest in bringing it stateside, as the publisher has filed a trademark for "Demongaze" in the United States. Demon Gaze sounds, well, kind of insane. Protagonist Oz can use his eye to capture demons, many of which are also robots who can transform. Oz can use money earned in the dungeon to rent more rooms from an innkeeper, in order to invite more NPCs into the inn to help him.

Kadokawa's last two games to be localized, Lollipop Chainsaw and the upcoming Killer is Dead, were published stateside by Warner Bros. and XSEED, respectively. The latter seems more likely to pick up a Vita dungeon RPG.

JoystiqKadokawa trademarks 'Demon Gaze' in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demon-gazekadokawa-gamesplaystationplaystation-vitatrademarkvitaMon, 08 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/06/microsoft-files-glacier-blast-trademark/#comments Microsoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademarkA trademark for "Glacier Blast" was recently filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office by Microsoft. While no other information about it exists, the trademark was filed as game software. Microsoft also registered the domain glacierblastgame.com in late March, according to WhoIs records. The URL currently points to a Bing search.

Using our refined detective skills, we think it's possible that this piece of "game software" is a video game currently in development by Microsoft. With a name like "Glacier Blast," we'll be disappointed if the final product isn't an arctic naval combat game in which large icy masses shoot lasers at an enemy called "Global Warming."

JoystiqMicrosoft files 'Glacier Blast' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domainglacier-blastMicrosoftTrademarkUSPTOSat, 06 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaiju Combat Kickstarter on hold over Wizards of the Coast trademark dispute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/kaiju-combat-kickstarter-on-hold-over-wizards-of-the-coast-trade/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/kaiju-combat-kickstarter-on-hold-over-wizards-of-the-coast-trade/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/kaiju-combat-kickstarter-on-hold-over-wizards-of-the-coast-trade/#comments A Kickstarter project for an indie game called Kaiju Combat: Giant Monsters has been put on hold, due to a trademark disagreement with game publisher Wizards of the Coast. Soon after raising $112,513 for its $100k goal, developer Sunstone Games received an infringement notice from Wizards of the Coast. The notice claimed the name of Sunstone's game violated Wizard's "Kaijudo" trademark, which refers to a collectible card game based on a Hasbro TV show.

Sunstone says its lawyer contacted Wizards last December to argue that "Kaiju" (a Japanese word that means "monster") had nothing at all to do with "Kaijudo," and they believed the matter had been settled. But this past week Wizards took the matter to Kickstarter directly, which took the project offline, claiming it was "the subject of an intellectual property dispute."

Sunstone's owner Simon Strange says he's working as quickly as possible to get the project reinstated. Going through court costs, he says, would be prohibitive on the company's "limited development budget." Strange adds he's "hopeful" that Sunstone won't have to change the game's name.

JoystiqKaiju Combat Kickstarter on hold over Wizards of the Coast trademark dispute originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kaijukaiju-combatkaijudokickstarterpcsunstone-gamestrademarktrademark-disputewizardswizards-of-the-coastFri, 22 Mar 2013 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, Vex]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/bungie-files-trademark-apps-for-glimmer-fallen-hive-cabal-ve/#comments Bungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, VexBungie is on the hunt for intellectual property, filing trademark applications for five ideas: Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal and Vex. Filed on March 11 and spotted by Gamespot, each word seeks protection for a range of products, including video games, novels (graphic and classic), Halloween costumes, clothing, action figures, television and movies.

Bungie, of course, is working on Destiny, a persistent-world console shooter with RPG elements. Destiny will come to the PlayStation 4 alongside the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, sometime not in 2013.

JoystiqBungie files trademark apps for Glimmer, Fallen, Hive, Cabal, Vex originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungiecabaldestinyfallenglimmerHivemicrosoftplaystationps3TrademarkUSPTOvexxboxSun, 17 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mutant Mudds dev Renegade Kid preparing 'Treasurenauts']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/mutant-mudds-dev-renegade-kid-preparing-treasurenauts/#comments Mutant Mudds dev working on 'Treasurenauts'Stalwart DS/3DS development studio Renegade Kid is preparing to announce its next game: Treasurenauts. Renegade Kid confirmed an impending announcement after a trademark for the name surfaced at Siliconera.

Renegade Kid's last effort was Mutant Mudds, a platformer that started out on the 3DS and eventually made its way over to Windows and iOS. A Wii U port is in the oven and the developer has said a sequel is also in progress.

JoystiqMutant Mudds dev Renegade Kid preparing 'Treasurenauts' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>renegade-kidtrademarktreasurenautsusptoThu, 28 Feb 2013 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallout trademark covers a TV show in an apocalyptic paradise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/fallout-trademark-covers-a-tv-show-in-an-apocalyptic-paradise/#comments Fallout trademark filed to cover usage as television programBethesda may be looking toward the future of its franchises, trademarking the Fallout brand for the purposes of using it in "entertainment services in the nature of an on-going television program set in a post-nuclear apocalyptic world," according to a USPTO listing. We thought Desperate Housewives had the "reality we would never want to live in" genre covered, but the more, the merrier.

Fallout forum member Conor Murton posted about the trademark today and Bethesda has yet to comment on the listing. Bethesda could simply be protecting its franchise, or it could have more active plans.

JoystiqFallout trademark covers a TV show in an apocalyptic paradise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdaBethesda-SoftworksfallouttelevisionTrademarktvUSPTOWed, 16 Jan 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft re-files Killing Day trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/ubisoft-re-files-killing-day-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/ubisoft-re-files-killing-day-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/ubisoft-re-files-killing-day-trademark/#comments Ubisoft refiles Killing Day trademarkUbisoft submitted a new trademark earlier this year for the seemingly abandoned Killing Day, a first-person shooter which first surfaced at E3 2005 as a demonstration trailer for the then upcoming PlayStation 3.

The demo, only half a minute long, showcased a FPS with dual-wield pistols and a heavy emphasis on destructible environments, with statues shattering into pieces and enemies falling through broken glass. After confirming it for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Ubisoft cancelled Killing Day in 2006.

This isn't the first time Ubisoft filed a Killing Day trademark post-cancellation. Ubisoft did the same back in 2009, then abandoned the trademark in 2012. Outside of that, there's not been a peep about the game since its cancellation some six years ago.

All of which makes it curious to see Ubisoft retain the trademark now. When approached about the trademark, an Ubisoft rep told us, "No comment for now."

JoystiqUbisoft re-files Killing Day trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killing-daymicrosoftplaystationps3trademarktrademarksubisoftxboxMon, 14 Jan 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA['Chubby Kings' trademark filed by Ubisoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/chubby-kings-trademark-filed-by-ubisoft/#comments 'Chubby Kings' trademark filed by UbisoftUbisoft has filed trademarks in both Europe and the U.S. for something called Chubby Kings, which we can safely infer from both filings' category designations is definitely a video game of some kind, though whether it's planned for console, mobile and/or handheld is indeterminate as this juncture.

The Chubby Kings trademark registers the game as potential media for everything from CD-ROMs and PDAs through technologies that aren't completely obsolete, so who knows. What we're most interested in, however, is exactly what purpose the adjective "chubby" serves in this sense. Are these regular kings that are also chubby? Perhaps the kings themselves are of average build, but rule over a kingdom of chubby denizens? These are important distinctions.

Joystiq'Chubby Kings' trademark filed by Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chubby-kingstrademarkubisoftUSPTOSat, 12 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix registers domains and trademarks for 'All the Bravest']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/02/square-enix-registers-domains-and-trademarks-for-all-the-braves/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/02/square-enix-registers-domains-and-trademarks-for-all-the-braves/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/02/square-enix-registers-domains-and-trademarks-for-all-the-braves/#comments Square Enix registered trademarks and domain names named "All the Bravest" Thursday. According to WhoIs records, allthebravest.com and allthebravest.net belong to the game publisher now, while the trademark (number 011386349) was filed in Europe.

A search for "All the Bravest" in the US patent and trademark records turns up nothing, and both registered URLs are empty. Our first thought is that this could infer a possible localization of Japanese 3DS RPG Bravely Default: Flying Fairy, but the only thing we can gather from this with any certainty is that Square Enix isn't interested in only "some of the bravest."

JoystiqSquare Enix registers domains and trademarks for 'All the Bravest' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-the-bravestbravely-default-flying-fairydomainSquare-EnixTrademarkSun, 02 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Fighters of Capcom' trademarked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/fighters-of-capcom-trademarked/#comments 'Fighters of Capcom' trademarked by Capcom
Whoa, hey, listen -- put that knife down. Look, we know you just had a terrifying Capcom Fighting Jam flashback, but everything is going to be okay. We've got no idea whether Capcom's newly registered trademark for "Fighters of Capcom" has anything to do with a fighting game. It could just as easily be the western name for some GREE card battling thing for cell phones, specifically Capcom All Stars with Everyone, which launched in Japan late last month.

It is video game related, we do know that much. The trademark's designation covers several variations on "Computer game software," as well as a few forms of "Electronic game programs for mobile phones and smart phones" and a mountain of other distinctions. We've reached out to Capcom for more information, so let's just both take a deep breath and drink this calming chamomile tea before someone gets knife murdered.

Joystiq'Fighters of Capcom' trademarked originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomCapcom-All-Stars-with-Everyonecapcom-fighting-jamfighters-of-capcomGREEtrademarkUSPTOTue, 20 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco trademark points to US release for JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/15/namco-trademark-points-to-us-release-for-jojos-bizarre-adventur/#comments CyberConnect2's upcoming manga adaptation/fighting game JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle (not to be confused with Capcom's recently released JoJo's Bizarre Adventure HD on XBLA and PSN) may see the light of day on North American shores, should a recently filed trademark serve as any indication.

The trademark itself (Serial No. 85723902) was submitted by Namco Bandai and only covers the words "All Star Battle," which is interesting considering that the trademark for "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" has been abandoned since 2010. At any rate, the trademark covers usage of the phrase in relation to computer games, arcade machines and other "amusement arcade services."

We're not willing to interpret those definitions as meaning that an arcade version of All Star Battle is in the works, but this trademark's existence does support the notion of a North American release. We've reached out to Namco Bandai for comment by freezing time and dropping a road roller in front of their offices.

JoystiqNamco trademark points to US release for JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyberconnect2jojos-bizarre-adventurejojos-bizarre-adventure-all-star-battlenamco-bandaiplaystationps3trademarkUSPTOSat, 15 Sep 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Owner of 'Gaymer' trademark sends cease and desist to Reddit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/owner-of-gaymer-trademark-sends-cease-and-desist-to-reddit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/owner-of-gaymer-trademark-sends-cease-and-desist-to-reddit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/10/owner-of-gaymer-trademark-sends-cease-and-desist-to-reddit/#comments Owner of 'Gaymer' trademark sends cease and desist to RedditIn 2007, owner of Gaymer.org Chris Vizzini announced his intent to trademark the term "gaymer," sparking a community controversy: Even though not everyone affiliated with the word itself, it was a commonly used bit of jargon, similar to "pwn" or "noob." Did Vizzini have the right to trademark such a common word?

Legally he did. In March 2008, Vizzini's trademark on "gaymer" passed registration and it is live today. The trademark applies to online communities, "hosting and maintaining an online website for others to discuss, receive and disseminate information concerning video games," specifically. In the interest of protecting his mark, Vizzini today sent a cease and desist letter to Reddit community /r/gaymers, which has more than 16,500 members, claiming infringement.

Reddit admins don't plan to ban the subreddit, but it will need to rename or find a compromise with Vizzini. This is an "unprecedented" situation for Reddit, but it is a serious problem, admin spladug writes:

"I informed the mod team of /r/gaymers that we'd received a cease and desist letter for infringement of the 'gaymer' trademark and that our legal counsel had informed us that the letter presents a real threat that they would sue reddit. I let them know so that they could start planning how to respond (including seeing if there's any way for them to work things out with the owner of the trademark)."

Vizzini says he sent the cease and desist because, as a trademark holder, he has to defend his mark or risk losing it. He says he emailed Reddit twice asking for the community to change its name, but got no response. "I started Gaymer.org in 2003 and began to build Gaymer as a brand," Vizzini writes. "Thats why I trademarked and word marked the name. At that time, there was only one other site around dedicated to gay gamers. I have spent countless hours and thousands of dollars on Gaymer.org. I have done so gladly as it's brought happiness to many people."

Vizzini isn't pursuing next year's GaymerCon gathering since his trademark applies only to online communities. The /r/gaymers community and other sites, such as GayGamer.net, are discussing the issue and the larger implications of trademarks and online forums. We raised the question of popular phrases being "owned" when Vizzini first announced the trademark, and it's no less relevant now.

As of today, Gaymer.org itself is "suspended," though whether this is due to an unintentional DDOS attack or reasons unrelated to the Reddit attention is unclear.

JoystiqOwner of 'Gaymer' trademark sends cease and desist to Reddit originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-vizziniGayGamergaygamer.netgaymergaymer.orglegalredditrgaymerssubredditsTrademarktrademarksMon, 10 Sep 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Square Enix trademarks 'Circle of Mana']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/report-square-enix-trademarks-circle-of-mana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/report-square-enix-trademarks-circle-of-mana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/report-square-enix-trademarks-circle-of-mana/#comments Square Enix has registered trademarks for, among other things, "Circle of Mana" in Japan, according to FF-Reunion, suggesting a new game in Square's beloved Mana series. The last Mana game to see release was 2007's Heroes of Mana; before that, the very weird physics-based action RPG Dawn of Mana came out on PS2.

The other trademarks reportedly filed include Wizardlings, which was also recently filed in the US by Square Enix, along with Agent 47, which refers to the Hitman character, and "Ultima Box," which likely refers to the gigantic collection announced recently. Whatever these are, it's likely we'll find out at TGS this month.

JoystiqReport: Square Enix trademarks 'Circle of Mana' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circle-of-manajapansquare-enixtrademarkFri, 07 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Star Wars: First Assault' trademark, domains filed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/star-wars-first-assault-trademark-domains-filed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/star-wars-first-assault-trademark-domains-filed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/star-wars-first-assault-trademark-domains-filed/#comments ImageLucasfilm has filed trademark applications and obtained domains for "Star Wars: First Assault," the second time this year the company has failed at stealth ops. Fusible lists all the multimedia applications (including "interactive video games") the filing seeks to cover. No specific details are yet available on the project.

Eurogamer swings for the fences that it could be related to the third Battlefront game, rumored to be under development at Spark Unlimited. Battlefront 3 has been in some form of vapor state for years, with a rumor percolating back in February that the project was now at Spark Unlimited.

Star Wars 1313, a mature take on the the mostly PG universe, was revealed earlier this year through the same sneaky domain and trademark fumbling.

Joystiq'Star Wars: First Assault' trademark, domains filed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LucasArtsstar-warsstar-wars-first-assaulttrademarkWed, 29 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from Skryim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/bethesda-trademarks-hearthfire-which-is-totally-a-thing-from/#comments Bethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from SkryimUpdate: Please excuse us, but we've written about this before. Like, back in May. Sorry about that, y'all! Nothing to see here! Move right along!

When Skyrim's "Dawnguard" DLC was first outed by a trademark filing back in March, we knew little aside from the name - references to the Dawnguard could be found in Skyrim, but only vague ones. It wasn't even clear that the filing was for DLC at the time - nor is it clear today that a recently unearthed trademark filing by Bethesda parent company Zenimax Media for "Hearthfire" is Skyrim's next DLC.

But it sure smells like it. The term "Hearthfire" (or "Heartfire") correlates to the ninth month in The Elder Scrolls' world of Tamriel, as well as a set of books in the 2920 series. Bethesda is staying mum for now, telling VentureBeat that the studio, "does not comment on trademark filings." The filing was made back in May, so it's always possible that the idea has since passed.

The filing is definitely game software, per the description: "Computer game software for use with computers and video game consoles; downloadable computer game software offered via the internet and wireless devices." There's also a wholly unremarkable image alongside the trademark filing, seen above.

JoystiqBethesda trademarks 'Hearthfire,' which is totally a thing from Skryim originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworksdlcdownloadable-contentelder-scrolls-5heart-fireheartfirehearth-firehearthfireskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimtrademarktrademark-filingunited-states-patent-and-trademark-officeusptozenimax-mediaTue, 21 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rebellion sues Stardock for its use of the word 'Rebellion']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/rebellion-sues-stardock-for-its-use-of-the-word-rebellion/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/rebellion-sues-stardock-for-its-use-of-the-word-rebellion/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/rebellion-sues-stardock-for-its-use-of-the-word-rebellion/#comments Rebellion sues Stardock for use of the word 'Rebellion'It's a strange day for Stardock when we say this is the second-weirdest lawsuit involving the company that we've seen today, but it's true. UK developer Rebellion (makers of the 2010 Aliens vs. Predator game) has decided to sue developer Stardock (publisher of Sins of a Solar Empire) because of the name of the latest Sins of the Solar Empire expansion, Rebellion. The court documents say that Rebellion (the studio) has a trademark on that word, and accuse Rebellion (the game), of causing customers "to mistakenly believe that the developer of the game Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion is in fact plaintiff Rebellion."

The developer of the expansion is actually Ironclad Games. But the lawsuit claims that from the logo and game name to a YouTube description for the game (mentioning "the developers over at 'Rebellion'"), Stardock knowingly profited off of the "Rebellion" trademark.

The litigation asks for Stardock to be enjoined from selling the game any further, to turn over any infringing materials, and for both damages in the case as well as the court and attorney's fees. Presumably, the complaint will next go in front of a Michigan judge, who will then decide on whether or not the issue can move forward.

JoystiqRebellion sues Stardock for its use of the word 'Rebellion' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamesinfringementlawsuitpcrebellionsins-of-a-solar-empiresins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellionstardocktrademarkThu, 16 Aug 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Level-5 trademarks names from 3DS 'Guild01' collection in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/level-5-trademarks-names-from-3ds-guild01-collection-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/level-5-trademarks-names-from-3ds-guild01-collection-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/13/level-5-trademarks-names-from-3ds-guild01-collection-in-us/#comments Level5 trademarks names from 3DS 'Guild01' collection in US
Guild01 is a collection of four games on one 3DS cartridge, featuring talent like Suda 51 and Seaman/SimTower creator Yoot Saito. So far, it was only released in Japan, but two new trademarks registered by publisher Level-5 indicate potential for a US release.

"Liberation Maiden" and "Crimson Shroud" refer to two games within the 3DS collection, one a shooter made by Suda51, and the other a dungeon RPG designed by Final Fantasy XII/Vagrant Story director Yasumi Matsuno. These are, so far, the only two Guild01-related trademarks registered in the US by Level-5. Curiously absent are the other two games from the cartridge, Saito's airport luggage puzzle game Aero Porter and comedian Yoshiyuki Hirai's weapon shop management game Omasse's Rental Weapon Shop.

The title "Guild01" itself is also missing, which leads us to wonder if Level-5 plans on releasing the games individually instead of in a bundle.

JoystiqLevel-5 trademarks names from 3DS 'Guild01' collection in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscrimson-shroudguild-01guild01level-5liberation-maidennintendotrademarkMon, 13 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony abandons The Last Guardian trademark, can get it back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/sony-abandons-the-last-guardian-trademark-can-get-it-back/#comments The Last Guardian trademark abandonedSony has abandoned the trademark for The Last Guardian, a game first teased by Team Ico in 2008 that has since been notoriously absent during subsequent conventions, productions and shows. The last we heard of The Last Guardian was when it didn't make an appearance at E3 this year. During the show, SCEA's Scott Rhode told us, "It just wasn't appropriate for us to give an update. That's just how it worked out."

The trademark was abandoned "because no Statement of Use or Extension Request [was] timely filed after Notice of Allowance was issued," the USPTO TARR report states. Sony may have unintentionally let the trademark lapse, and has two months to file a petition to retrieve the application, according to its notice of abandonment.

The Last Guardian trademark was issued in January 2010, meaning Sony has until January 2013 to prove "use in commerce" and retain the mark, according to sleuth superannuation. "Use in commerce" would mean a completed, marketable game, which doesn't exist, as far as we know. Sony can of course register The Last Guardian in a new trademark if this one lapses.

Regardless of whether Sony intentionally abandoned the trademark, accidentally letting it lapse would seem to indicate a lack of focus on The Last Guardian, substantiated by the lack of content shown to the public.

JoystiqSony abandons The Last Guardian trademark, can get it back originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abandonedplaystationps3SONYTeam-IcoThe-Last-GuardianTrademarkUSPTOThu, 09 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before Gamescom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/sony-trademarks-rain-until-dawn-in-eu-and-us-before-gamesco/#comments Sony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before GamescomSony is either preparing a few unannounced IPs for the public eye, or it's really concerned about the weather at Gamescom next week. Sony has trademarked "Rain" and "Until Dawn" in the US and Europe, both as "computer game software." The above image was included with the Rain filing via OHIM, the European trademark system.

Until Dawn was registered on OHIM in May and on USPTO in August; Rain hit both OHIM and USPTO on July 30. No additional information is provided in the filings, but OnlySP links the Rain trademark with a gif depicting an unknown PlayStation quick-time-event (mostly because it happens to be raining in the scene). The image in Rain's filing takes a more Limbo approach than the gif suggests, but for now any speculation is just that.

Sony's Gamescom press conference is on Tuesday, August 14, and the trademark timing seems right for a reveal.

JoystiqSony trademarks 'Rain,' 'Until Dawn' in EU and US before Gamescom originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeGamescom-2012ohimplaystationplaystation-vitaps3RainSONYTrademarkuntil-dawnusUSPTOvitaTue, 07 Aug 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft files trademark for 'Galactic Reign']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/microsoft-files-trademark-for-galactic-reign/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/microsoft-files-trademark-for-galactic-reign/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/microsoft-files-trademark-for-galactic-reign/#comments Microsoft files trademark for something called Galactic ReignMicrosoft filed a trademark last week for something called "Galactic Reign," specifically in the categories of "video game software," as well as "entertainment services, namely, providing online video games." This could indicate an unannounced game, but Microsoft isn't sharing any other comments on what Galactic Reign might be. Microsoft has a number of in-process deals with various developers, so this could be anything.

Companies and publishers will often file trademarks on potential or even hypothetical projects, and then change titles or cancel the games entirely before the public ever sees them. When Microsoft finally announces something called Universal Umbrella, then, we'll know what happened.

JoystiqMicrosoft files trademark for 'Galactic Reign' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2012 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>filinggalactic-reigngovernmentmicrosoftpctrademarktrademark-officexboxMon, 06 Aug 2012 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Techland files trademark for 'Dead Stop']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/techland-files-trademark-for-dead-stop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/techland-files-trademark-for-dead-stop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/28/techland-files-trademark-for-dead-stop/#comments Techland files trademark for 'Dead Stop' Techland, the developer responsible for bringing Dead Island into the world, has filed to register a trademark for something called "Dead Stop," which we're almost nearly entirely positive has something to do with video games and dead stuff.

The application itself registers the trademark under a lot of the same goods and services classifications as the Dead Island trademark, with one important difference. While the Dead Island trademark covers use for video games and a myriad of merchandising options, "Dead Stop" is also listed under the code "IC 041. US 100 101 107," which specifically applies to online applications on mobile phones and portables, as well as websites "featuring entertainment information in the fields of electronic game programs, electronic game products, and electronic game programs and products."

Until there's an official announcement of some kind, what "Dead Stop" actually is remains to be seen. Who knows, maybe it's a zombie telegraph simulator? "WE PROMISE WE ARE NOT DEAD, STOP. PLEASE RESPOND ASAP WITH BRAIN WEIGHTS AND MEASUREMENTS, STOP."

JoystiqTechland files trademark for 'Dead Stop' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-islandDead-stopTechlandtrademarkSat, 28 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paramount files World War Z game trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/paramount-files-world-war-z-game-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/paramount-files-world-war-z-game-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/paramount-files-world-war-z-game-trademark/#comments Paramount files World War Z game trademarkWith Paramount Pictures set to finally release its film adaptation of World War Z next year (starring the ever-dreamy Brad Pitt), it's now filing trademarks for lots of associated products. In addition to filings for various undead merchandise (Halloween costumes!), the company has also filed two trademarks relating to video games.

Specifically, one trademark was filed for "entertainment services, namely, providing online electronic games," while the other relates to downloadable, handheld and cartridge/disc games. It's hardly surprising that a major film would have a video game tie-in, but we're a little worried about the source material. Zombies? In a video game? Frankly, we're just not sure it can work.

JoystiqParamount files World War Z game trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brad-pitttrademarkworld-war-zTue, 17 Jul 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom registers trademark for potential new game 'Remember Me']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/capcom-registers-trademark-for-potential-new-game-remember-me/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/capcom-registers-trademark-for-potential-new-game-remember-me/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/capcom-registers-trademark-for-potential-new-game-remember-me/#comments It would seem Capcom is gearing up to announce a brand new game. According to a trademark that recently surfaced online, the new title is called Remember Me. There isn't anything else to go on right now outside of a filing date of May 22, 2012, and that the trademark was filed in both the US and Europe.

With E3 around the corner, it's likely we'll hear about this game next week. We're not ones to usually speculate, but our money's on Remember Me being an entirely new property. Nothing in Capcom's past suggests Remember Me is a reboot or an installment in one of Capcom's numerous established franchises.

JoystiqCapcom registers trademark for potential new game 'Remember Me' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adriftcapcomdontnoddontnod-entertainmentremember-metrademarkMon, 28 May 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard and Valve settle DOTA argument, Blizzard DOTA is now Blizzard All-Stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/blizzard-and-valve-settle-dota-argument-blizzard-dota-is-now-bl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/blizzard-and-valve-settle-dota-argument-blizzard-dota-is-now-bl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/blizzard-and-valve-settle-dota-argument-blizzard-dota-is-now-bl/#comments Blizzard has dropped a short-and-sweet press release (reprinted below) informing us that it has landed on a "mutual agreement" with Valve regarding the contested "DOTA" trademark. DOTA, of course, stands for "Defense of the Ancients," which is a fanmade map and mode for Blizzard's Warcraft 3, originally based on a Starcraft map. Developer "IceFrog," who's overseen the DOTA map since 2005, has gone to work for Valve on DOTA 2, while Blizzard has been working on its official variation of the game, previously called Blizzard DOTA.

The mutual agreement means that Valve will get the rights to use the "DOTA" trademark commercially, so DOTA 2's name won't change. Blizzard reserves the right for fans to use the trademark noncommercially, but will give up the DOTA name for its official variant. That game will instead be called Blizzard All-Stars, "which ultimately better reflects the design of our game," said Blizzard executive VP Rob Pardo. "We look forward to going into more detail on that at a later date."

Valve's Gabe Newell also gave comment, saying that Valve is "pleased that we could come to an agreement with Blizzard without drawing things out in a way that would benefit no one." Blizzard All-Stars doesn't have a release date yet, and DOTA 2 is due out next year.

Continue reading Blizzard and Valve settle DOTA argument, Blizzard DOTA is now Blizzard All-Stars

JoystiqBlizzard and Valve settle DOTA argument, Blizzard DOTA is now Blizzard All-Stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agreementblizzardblizzard-all-starsblizzard-dotadotadota-2gabe-newellnoncommercialpcrob-pardotrademarkvalveFri, 11 May 2012 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Lucasfilm applies for 'Star Wars 1313' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/lucasfilm-applies-for-star-wars-1313-trademark/#comments ImageA strange new trademark application by Lucasfilm portends a new multimedia Star Wars franchise, including video games. The company filed for the name "Star Wars 1313" for use with video games, as well as toys, trading cards, sticker books, pencil sharpeners, online social networking services, and anything else that can possibly bear the Star Wars logo.

The document contains no indication of what "Star Wars 1313" means; we knew the series was set "a long time ago," but don't know if that translates to 700 years in Earth time. However, a quick Wookieepedia search reveals "CT-1313" as a name used by Boba Fett in a Star Wars novel. So it could be a Boba Fett-focused thing. Dengar's still waiting for his big break.

JoystiqLucasfilm applies for 'Star Wars 1313' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lucasartslucasfilmstar-warsstar-wars-1313trademarkusptoMon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA files trademark for 'SimOcean']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/ea-files-trademark-for-simocean/#comments ImageWhile that Atlantis management sim starring Aquaman - you know, our dream game - isn't likely to be made anytime soon, it seems EA is already laying claim to Sim-themed titles beyond 2013's "SimCity." A new trademark for something called SimOcean was filed earlier this week.

The filing was made in Europe and spotted by Siliconera, and beyond that we don't know much else. Maxis produced a slew of Sim offshoots over the years, including SimHealth, SimTower, SimFarm and many more. We'll have to add SimOcean to that list if it ever becomes more than a trademark.

JoystiqEA files trademark for 'SimOcean' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-maxiselectronic-artseuropeglassboxglassbox-enginesimoceantrademarkSat, 28 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just look at this PS Move steering wheel patent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/just-look-at-this-ps-move-steering-wheel-patent/#comments ImageAt first glance, it looks like Sony's answer to the Wii Wheel. But the patent proposing the above device has one odd feature: controller grips on the side of the wheel, which houses a PlayStation Move, that extend outward.

The patent - it's described as "ornamental design for a video game controller peripheral" - was originally filed in April of last year and recently surfaced online. As is the case with many patents, this is less of a guaranteed product and more of snapshot of some of the ideas that went through a peripheral designer's head.

JoystiqJust look at this PS Move steering wheel patent originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>movepatentplaystationplaystation-moveps3trademarkusptoThu, 19 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zenimax files 'FUS RO DAH' trademarks, USPTO cowers behind desk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/zenimax-files-fus-ro-dah-trademarks-uspto-cowers-behind-desk/#comments
There's little we like more than some good ol' fashioned wind shouting, Dragonborn-style, and it looks like Bethesda Softworks parent company Zenimax Media agrees with us. The company recently filed a sextet of trademark applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the term "Fus Roh Dah" - a trio of words that originate with Skyrim.

In particular, the filings pertain to everything from the typical computer game trademark to a variety of merchandising and "entertainment services." Though it's fun to fantasize about the ridiculous merchandizing possibilities, it's likely that Bethesda's parent company is just locking up said trademarks against potential profiteers. Now, if you'll excuse us, we'll get back to dreaming about "Fus Roh Dah"-themed sporting equipment (covered by filing number 85589296).

JoystiqZenimax files 'FUS RO DAH' trademarks, USPTO cowers behind desk originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesda-softworkselder-scrolls-5fus-ro-dahfus-roh-dahskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimtrademarkusptozenimaxzenimax-mediaWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Pac-Man Smash' trademarked in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pac-man-smash-trademarked-in-europe/#comments ImageNamco Bandai filed a European trademark (number 010786341) for something called "Pac-Man Smash!" suggesting that, finally, Namco is making a spinoff game based on Pac-Man.

All right, maybe there's not enough information in the trademark listing to do much other than joke about the ubiquity of games starring Pac-Man, but the trademark does at least specify that it's for a video game (or card game, toy, or "gymnastic and sporting articles.)

The majority of Pac-Man-themed games end up on mobile or iOS these days (Pac-Man Arcade Golf, Pac-Man Kart Rally, Pac-Chain, etc.) so that's a likely destination for whatever this turns out to be. We're attempting to corner Namco now to ask about it, before the publisher can find a Power Pellet and turn on us.

Joystiq'Pac-Man Smash' trademarked in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europenamco-bandaipac-manpac-man-smashtrademarkMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft dates Rocksmith for UK despite trademark issue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/ubisoft-dates-rocksmith-for-uk-despite-trademark-issue/#comments Ubisoft has issued a September 14 release date for its guitar teaching program Rocksmith in the UK. There's a small problem with that: Ubisoft hasn't actually cleared the trademark dispute that pushed the game into 2012 in the first place. "No agreement/deal has been reached and no meaningful dialogue engaged," Kris Ford, percussionist for the band Rocksmith, told Eurogamer.

Ford said the release date announcement was "interesting but no surprise." Proceedings with the European trademark office are expected to continue through June. Giving a date to the game is "a bit presumptive to say the least, as to the outcome of that process and decision." He admitted that Ubisoft could just launch the game as it did in the US, "which will mean the start of a different kind of legal battle in the UK courts." Ford then went on to hope for "another English victory" close to the anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt. Really.

JoystiqUbisoft dates Rocksmith for UK despite trademark issue originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3q3-2012release-daterocksmithtrademarkubisoftukxboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trademark filing suggests new Mini Ninjas game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/trademark-filing-suggests-new-mini-ninjas-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/trademark-filing-suggests-new-mini-ninjas-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/trademark-filing-suggests-new-mini-ninjas-game/#comments It appears that Square Enix may be planning another game filled with tiny assassins. A European trademark filing suggests the publisher is developing a new Mini Ninjas game, titled Mini Ninjas: Hiro's Adventure. Adding to the evidence, Square has also registered a web domain under the same name.

The original Mini Ninjas (pictured) was released in 2009, though it's also coming to Google's Chrome web browser soon. The web app is currently available in beta.

JoystiqTrademark filing suggests new Mini Ninjas game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>io-interactivemini-ninjasmini-ninjas-hiros-adventuresquare-enixtrademarkWed, 14 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ files '1666' trademark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/thq-files-1666-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/thq-files-1666-trademark/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/thq-files-1666-trademark/#comments THQ has filed a request for "1666" with the US Patent and Trademark Office. Gamespot dug up the trademark, which the site speculates could be in reference to the Great Fire of London.

Of course, other events occurred in 1666, including the Four Days' Battle, one of the longest naval engagements in history. Plus, we could totally go for a fresh take on The Ancient Art of War at Sea.

We were also curious if it's even kosher to trademark a number:

"Why yes, you can. The mark just has to be attached to a product, so even a number can be a mark. It happens all the time with cars (F150, 328i, M3, e55, A4, IS350, etc.) and often with other 'model number' kinds of instances," former Law of the Game columnist and actual lawyer Mark Methenitis explained.

"The important thing to remember is the mark only applies to the list of goods (in the case of 1666, the list is more or less "video games"), so while I couldn't make another game named 1666, I might be able to make a movie and I would certainly be able to make a set of kitchen utensils or a perfume called 1666. Those are a completely different kind of good unlikely to be confused with the game -- or at least I would assume; if the game is about a chef with a perfume fetish, maybe not."

This is the second time a trademark filling by the financially troubled publisher has popped up in recent memory, with "Evolve" showing up a couple weeks ago.

JoystiqTHQ files '1666' trademark originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1666THQtrademarkWed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mojang can't use 'Scrolls' in any sequels to 'Scrolls,' lawsuit dictates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mojang-cant-use-scrolls-in-any-sequels-to-scrolls-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mojang-cant-use-scrolls-in-any-sequels-to-scrolls-lawsuit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mojang-cant-use-scrolls-in-any-sequels-to-scrolls-lawsuit/#comments Notch seems to be happy with the outcome of Mojang's legal tussle with Bethesda, which allows Mojang to use Scrolls as the title of a coming game that looks and plays nothing like anything in the Elder Scrolls series. Bethesda retains the trademark for "Scrolls," but Mojang can use it for its title, a result that had Notch beaming -- but as with all legal battles, it's not that simple.

After the celebratory "Yaaaay! <3" Notch tweeted, "The actual document I signed was like a billion pages, so at least we know a bunch of lawyers got rich. Good, wouldn't want them to starve." Within those billion-odd pages comes an interesting deal that prohibits Mojang from using "Scrolls" in the title of any sequels to Scrolls:

"ZeniMax has licensed the 'Scrolls' mark to Mojang to be used solely in conjunction with its existing Scrolls digital card game and any add-on material it makes to that game," a Bethesda statement reads. "The terms of the settlement bar Mojang from using the Scrolls mark for any sequel to the current card game, or any other video game."

Either Notch doesn't plan on making more than one iteration of Scrolls, or the subsequent titles will be called "Reams," "Parchments" or "Ancient Paper that One Rolls Up and can Unravel to Read From, Such as a Decree."

JoystiqMojang can't use 'Scrolls' in any sequels to 'Scrolls,' lawsuit dictates originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bethesda-SoftworkslawsuitlegalMarkus-PerssonmojangnotchpcscrollssequelTrademarkzenimax-mediaMon, 12 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rampant Speculation Theatre presents: THQ trademarks 'Evolve']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/rampant-speculation-theatre-presents-thq-trademarks-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/rampant-speculation-theatre-presents-thq-trademarks-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/rampant-speculation-theatre-presents-thq-trademarks-evolve/#comments THQ has filed a trademark for "Evolve" with the United States Patent & Trademark Office, according to an application dug up by Gamespot. The trademark's classification is rather wordy and all encompassing, ranging from what you'd expect ("computer game software") to what you might not ("providing entertainment services, in the nature of a site featuring entertainment information, discussion groups, non-downloadable video games, and downloads relating to video games").

Here on Rampant Speculation Theatre, it's our job to take news that is particularly svelte and jazz it up with lies predictions, so let's get to it: Evolve will be a Spore-esque artificial life simulator, covering the evolution of all planetary life from single-celled organisms through modern man. Evolve's differentiating factor will be the fact that all evolution takes place in real time; at 6 billion years long, it offers players excellent value for money.

JoystiqRampant Speculation Theatre presents: THQ trademarks 'Evolve' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EvolvePatentTHQTrademarkSat, 03 Mar 2012 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Double Fine's 'The Cave' is not the Kickstarter adventure game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/double-fines-the-cave-is-not-the-kickstarter-adventure-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/double-fines-the-cave-is-not-the-kickstarter-adventure-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/double-fines-the-cave-is-not-the-kickstarter-adventure-game/#comments We already knew that Double Fine had at least two projects cooking at the moment, but now we know more about one of them -- a recent trademark filing for "The Cave" apparently isn't attached to the development studio's Kickstarter project. A Double Fine rep confirmed as much to GameSpot this week in a statement which read, "While we can't comment on unannounced projects, we can say that Double Fine's Kickstarter-funded adventure game has not been started, designed, or even imagined yet. No trademarks have been filed on its behalf."

Like so many trogloxenes, the "Cave" project is still shrouded in darkness. We are, however, less than a week from GDC and the beginning of near-monthly trade events, so we imagine it won't be too long before any information at all about the game is revealed.

JoystiqDouble Fine's 'The Cave' is not the Kickstarter adventure game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-finekickstarterthe-cavetrademarkThu, 01 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST