![]() ![]() Fictional characters in D&D are also copyrightable if they have “distinctive character traits and attributes” and are “sufficiently delineated to be recognizable as the same character whenever it appears.” Ī game’s copyright protection prohibits others from copying the game’s protected elements, which extends to both literal copying and reproductions that are substantially similar. Hasbro, which currently owns the D&D franchise, owns registered copyrights in hundreds of books, modules, guides, maps, and other materials. Role-playing games (“RPGs”) like D&D generally have extensive text describing various classes, items, spells, and other elements, and this text can be protectable as a literary work under the Copyright Act. However, other aspects may qualify for copyright protection, such as the artwork on the box, cards, and other components. As applied to tabletop games like D&D, a game’s mechanics and rules – the “heart” of a game – are not copyrightable. As a general matter, copyright protects original works of authorship that are fixed in a tangible medium of expression. Vox Machina’s story of success highlights how properly leveraging copyright law, through derivative works, licensing, and fair use, can truly be the “rising tide that raises all ships” in stimulating creativity and innovation in board game entertainment. ![]() ![]() The Legend of Vox Machina is based on the popular web-series Critical Role, which featured renowned voice actor Matt Mercer guiding his troupe of talented voice actor friends through a live-play D&D campaign in the fantasy world of Exandria. Much to the delight of Dungeons & Dragons (“D&D”) fans, a new animated fantasy show was released on Amazon Prime in late January and has taken the internet by storm. ![]()
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