On Wed, 20 Feb 2002, Michael Cortez wrote:

> This is the reason why over the last 72 hours of doing a little research for
> my OGX site, I've seen logos for at least 5 different small press & web
> based RPG companies that use the number 20, or a depiction/photo of a 20
> Sided Die in their company or product line logos.
>
> It is of my personal opinion, that in this case if no other company is
> allowed to use the number 20 in a trademark for a role-playing game product,
> because of the registration of the d20 System TM -- then the trademark
> system is being abused.  But this is only my personal opinion, and I will
> have no qualms about switching to a different moniker if this becomes an
> obstacle.

Mike,

In my opinion your problem is going to have more to do with the fact that
your using the number 20 for rpg products that *are based on WotC's
d20SRD*.  Preventing any use of the number 20 in rpg products may be hard
for WotC to do.  But preventing the use of the number 20 in product lines
that use the d20SRD may be easier.

And if WotC legal has stated, even unofficially, that WotC is likely to
object to these logos, Ryan's advice is dead on.  You either need to
consult an attorney now before moving ahead or simply move on to other
names/logos.  If you just move ahead with using the logos, you're more
likely than not just going to incur legal fees eventually.

As for the abuse of the trademark system, remember that anyone is free to
file their complaints about the 'd20 system' logo once the uspto begins
the opposition phase.  Even if the trademark is granted, opposition can
lead to further clarification of just what the mark stands for and what
can constitute confusion.

alec


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