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Are names in video games copyrighted?

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Are names in video games copyrighted?

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.”

Are video game character names trademarked?

Yes, video game characters are copyrighted. Under US law, you own the copyright on any intellectual property as soon as you create it, without any need to register it.

How do I know if a game name is copyrighted?

To search the USPTO’s trademark database, go to TESS and choose a search option. If you are searching for a name, you can use the trademark name search. If you are searching a design mark, such as a logo, you will first need to look up your design code using the USPTO’s Design Search Code Manual.

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Can two video games have the same name?

In theory, yes, that is possible, but it may not be the best approach for your game and no one here is in any position to offer specific advice about your trademark without understanding all the facts and details.

Can a character name be copyrighted?

Yes, the name of a fictional character or its graphical representation can be registered as a trademark if it is being used as a trademark. A fictional character can be used as a trademark in many ways, such as using the character as a logo for a business or for retail items.

What characters are not copyrighted?

Best Public Domain Characters

  1. Robin Hood.
  2. Zorro.
  3. Dracula.
  4. Sherlock Holmes.
  5. John Carter.
  6. Frankenstein’s Monster.
  7. Scarecrow.
  8. Dorothy Gale.

How do you know if a name is trademarked?

You can search for federally registered trademarks by using the free trademark database on the USPTO’s website. To start, go to the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Business Center at http://www.uspto.gov/main/trademarks.htm and choose “Search.” Then follow the instructions you see on the screen.

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How do I check if a name is trademarked?

Log in to the official website of trademark registration in India: https://ipindiaonline.gov.in.

  1. Click on the trademarks tab and then click on public search.
  2. There are 3 search criteria available – Wordmark, Vienna code, and Phonetic.
  3. On selection of each criterion, the keyword fields change as listed below:

Can names be copyrighted?

Copyright does not protect names, titles, slogans, or short phrases. In some cases, these things may be protected as trademarks.