RE: TSR Internet Policy (was Re: [Open_Gaming] A D20STL caution)

[Brad Thompson]

> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
>
>   Example: I create a new fantasy "monster" and assign D&D stats
> to it for
> use in the game. The creature description is mine, but the stats are
> derivative, as they rely on the published (i.e., copyrighted)
> rules for use.
>
>   Example: I write an original piece of fiction with new,
> original characters
> but the story is set in the Star Wars universe. The new
> characters and the
> story, as written, is mine (sort of) but the stuff involving the
> established
> Star Wars setting is derivative.

Those are not 'original' works as that term is used in copyright law.  They
are derivative works that also contain original content.  (The first one is
pretty gray, since rules don't enjoy copyright protection, but the second is
black-letter law).

The online policy encourages the creation of 'original' works, not
'derivative works that have original content in them'.

-Brad

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