Re: [Open_Gaming] "Open" Debate

[Lizard]

Mathew Gray wrote:
> 
> Ask anyone who tries to "tap" a card in a non-WoTC CCG. :)
> 
There are, roughly, three different means by which intellectual property
is protected:

Patents
Trademarks
Copyrights

They are NOT synonyms. Anyone interested in IP issues, which most people
on this list are, is well advised to have at least a rough grasp of the
differences. A single product (such as M:TG) can use all three in
different ways, for example:

The name 'Magic:The Gathering', and the distinctive 'look and feel'
(trade dress) of the cards, among other things, is trademarked. So are
terms like 'Urza' and 'Weatherlight'.

The art and text of the cards and rulebooks are copyrighted.

Certain of the game mechanics are patented.
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