WarZone is a freeware game in the final stages of development that is expected to be released for testing in the next few weeks (It should be noted that the server hosting the website is temporarily down). However, it occurred to me that the name 'WarZone' may be in breach of some legal trademarks and a further inquiry revealed these results. As project leader, it is my reasonability to ensure that I am not doing anything illegal with the game. So my question put forth: Am I legally allowed to use the title 'WaZone' to describe my game, giving that I am situated in Australia and the game is a freeware product? If so, that is good news. If not, would it be acceptable to alter the title to read '(my name)'s WarZone'? My other concern is the licence that WarZone is to be released under (WarZone is NOT open source). Does one need to use an official licence and what is the expense? Is it ok to merely construct my own licence agreement stating that: 1. The developers (including myself) are not responsible for any negative effects the product may produce. 2. The product may not be rented or sold without my personal permission. 3. The media included with the product (graphics, sound, music) may not be taken and used without my personal permission. Any answers would be appreciated. Jackson Allan [edited by - jack_1313 on March 20, 2004 5:57:23 AM] [edited by - jack_1313 on March 21, 2004 3:02:55 AM]

Not sure about copyright but the name Warzone is Cliche. A quick google search churns out many games with the same name so your game won''t stand out too much in that respect.

You can construct your own license agreement. If you want to make sure it''s binding, you should get a lawyer (you should have one anyways if you ever want to make money at this).

Unfortunately the service of a lawyer is not possible.
I am aware that the name ''WarZone'' is unoriginal but if possible I would like to keep it as it holds a certain degree of history to me.

quote: Original post by jack_1313
Unfortunately the service of a lawyer is not possible.
I am aware that the name ''WarZone'' is unoriginal but if possible I would like to keep it as it holds a certain degree of history to me.

Even if you are right, can you afford to be sued? It sounds like you can''t since you won''t get an attorney. You best bet would be to take the path of least resistance, ie change the name to something else.

You are correct in assuming that I cannot afford to be sued. In the case that I was threatened by another party I would simple change the name and, hopefully, that would resolve any issues.
However, it has become apparent that the name will (most likely) need to be changed. Any suggestions are welcome...