Simple Game Idea Based Off an Existing Game

**FredT** · 05-29-2009, 03:05 PM

Hi,

I was thinking of creating an online version of a popular arcade game called Stacker. It's a very simple game, blocks slide back and forth across the screen and you have to stop the blocks at the same place on each row and build a stack up to the top.

The problem is if the game becomes popular, I'm afraid Stacker might sue me for stealing their idea. I've seen lawsuits over ideas in more complex games like computer games with full plots and gameplay, but would the same happen with something like Stacker? I see Tetris all over the place, which is somewhat similar in nature.

Also, I would not be calling the game Stacker if that makes a difference... it would have an original name.

Any info on the laws concerning this?

Thanks!

**LawResearcherMissy** · 05-30-2009, 06:15 AM

Someone (or several someones) have beat you to it.

That aside, certainly an attempt to bring you up Tetris clones all over because most of them have licensing agreements with The Tetris Company, which holds the IP rights to the game.

To keep yourself out of hot water, I would suggest you consult an IP attorney in your area to help you explore obtaining a licensing agreement with LAI for the development of an online Stacker clone.