Microsoft, in general, LOVES it when people say "Compatible with
windows!". Indeed, they've been hauled into court because they've been
rather eager that no one release software which isn't. (Slight
exaageration)
So why would TSR/WOTC object to products 'compatible with D&D'?
Consider:
a)The more stuff that is out there 'for use with' D&D, the more
incentive there is to buy the core rules. This is, after all, the
business logic behind the open gaming initiative to begin with. "Wow!
Look at all these cool supplements for use with D&D! I'd better buy it
instead of Competing Game which doesn't have any cool stuff!"
b)There is a fear of loss of revenue from competing add-on products. But
let's be real here -- what are the odds Moms Basement Games can produce
a higher-quality add-on than WOTC can? And, if MBG *can*, WOTC just
hires the designers for three times what they can earn at MBG.
c)There is a problem of crappy products bearing the D&D logo creating
'bad blood' towards the original game. However, things such as 'trade
dress' make it mandatory that supplemental products have a different
'look and feel' than TSR-branded products. I don't know of anyone who
thought Mayfair, Judges Guild, or Arduin products were from TSR, and any
disappointment in those products was aimed at the publishers, NOT at D&D
itself.
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For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
