I have recently been offered an opportunity to work on some small games with a game company. I will be expected to sign a Confidentiality/Unfair Competition agreement. Is this what is more commonly referred to as a Non Disclosure Agreement or is it something different? Either way, is it a pretty standard agreement or can it vary significantly from company to company? This will be my first venture into commercial game development so I want to cover my bases before I sign anything. I also have a lawyer available if I it becomes necessary. Thanks.

The confidentiality part is most likely an NDA. The Unfair Competition part is either a noncompete or nonsolicitation agreement. These are both standard, and also vary significantly from company to company. If you cannot understand exactly what the language of the contract means, you should consult a lawyer.

Thank you for your advice.

FWIW, I echo what Sneftel said. If anything in the agreement could be clarified for you by your lawyer, it's worth the hour.

Echoing Tom and Sneftel here. Do read the documents VERY carefully, and do consult that lawyer if there is anything that needs clarification or seems over-reaching... especially in the non-compete.

This is not to scare you into thinking the company is being less than honest. It's just that in most cases the agreements they hand you are "one size fits all" and may need a bit of tinkering and clarification to make them a good fit for you and your situation. The money on the lawyer will be well spent.

A good deal is one that is good for all parties!