To: Lawmakers, WIPO, European Patent Office, USPTO, Intellectual Property Offices, Game Industry Developers and Gamers.

Proposal to Reform the Duration and Licensing of Patents for Game Mechanics

The gaming industry thrives on creativity and innovation. However, current patent laws surrounding game mechanics are stifling this progress. Many companies secure patents for specific game mechanics and either hold onto them for decades without any use or release slightly modified versions of the same game. This practice hampers innovation and prevents new ideas from flourishing in the gaming space.

Proposed Reform:

1. Initial Patent Term of 5 Years  
   Patents for game mechanics should be granted for a maximum initial period of 5 years. This provides ample time for creators to benefit from their innovations while encouraging further advancements in the industry. This time frame ensures that no single entity can monopolize a popular game mechanic for an extended period.
2. Extension Based on Usage, with a Maximum Limit of 15 Years  
   For every new game that utilizes a patented mechanic, the patent's term should be extended by 1 to 2 years, with a maximum total duration of 15 years. This cap prevents companies from manipulating the system by creating multiple games with minimal changes just to artificially prolong patent protection. This way, innovation remains at the forefront without stifling competition.
3. Licensing to Third Parties  
   Patent holders should either use patented mechanics, either give licenses for their patents. Licensing would not only provide financial benefit to the patent owner but would also extend the patent's term, allowing the mechanic to be implemented by others while fostering collaboration within the GameDev industry.
4. Creation of a Complaint System for Nearly Identical Games  
   To avoid companies exploiting the system by producing nearly identical games that offer no substantial innovation, a formal complaint process should be implemented. Developers and players alike should be able to report companies that release multiple games with minimal differences, merely to extend patent protection or suppress competition. These complaints should be reviewed by an impartial committee, and, if found valid, appropriate action (such as denial of patent extension or financial penalties) should be taken.

Benefits of the Proposed Reform:

- Promotes Innovation: By limiting the initial patent term and placing a cap on the maximum duration, developers will be motivated to continue innovating and improving their mechanics rather than exploiting the system with small, incremental changes.
- Encourages Fair Competition: Reducing long-term monopolies on game mechanics and implementing a complaint system for copycat games will lead to more diversity and creativity within the industry, benefiting both developers and players.
- Fosters Collaboration: By offering incentives for licensing, developers will be more inclined to share their innovations with others, contributing to the overall growth of the industry.
- Prevents Stagnation: The automatic expiration of unused patents ensures that innovative mechanics will not be locked away, unused, and unavailable for others to build upon.

The current patent system for game mechanics hinders progress and restricts access to creative ideas. By reforming the patent structure as proposed, we can create a more dynamic and competitive gaming landscape that rewards innovation while fostering collaboration and growth, while also preventing abuse of the system.

We urge lawmakers and stakeholders to consider and implement these changes to ensure a vibrant and innovative future for the gaming industry.

Sign the Petition
If you believe in promoting innovation, fair competition, and integrity in the gaming industry, please add your name to support this much-needed reform.

This petition reflects the interests of both developers and players who wish to see a more open, innovative, and fair gaming industry, free from the constraints of overly restrictive and easily manipulated patent laws.