Curtis Bennett wrote: >For example, could I create a Shadow Dragon? A shadow and a dragon are both in >the SRD, and I could easily derive a 'shadow dragon' by combining elements from >both of them. But, obviously, a 'Shadow Dragon' already exists in the 2nd >edition Grayhawk Monster Manual - clearly not in the SRD. Does the license say >anything in this regard? Is there a precedent for this? > You're asking two questions, really.
1:) "Can I re-create the 2e Shadow Dragon and release it under the OGL?" Well, the answer is "maybe." If you want to, go ahead and convert it, send it to the Creature Catalog if you like, and even slap the OGL on it. The worst thing that can happen is WotC saying "you messed up, how are you going to fix it?" and you fix it. That's the "Safe Harbor." Legally, you might be FUBARed even if you follow the OGL and WotC wants to come down nasty on you--but if you follow the OGL in good faith, they won't have an economic reason to do so. 2:) "Can I create a new 'Shadow Dragon' creature based off of the Dragon and the Shadow in the SRD." Sure. Don't try and claim the name "Shadow Dragon" as PI or trademark, and you'll do fine for OGC. Once again, the Safe Harbor keeps you from worrying of WotC will come and take your house away. All the money and work you've spent on the Shadow Dragon, sure. But not your house. Just remember--I am not a lawyer, or a game professional. Please remember this when taking my advice. Sometimes I make sense, sometimes I'm completely off the wall and give advice that could cause you to lose the aforementioned house. For heaven's sake, get another opinion besides mine! DM _______________________________________________ Ogf-l mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.opengamingfoundation.org/mailman/listinfo/ogf-l
