275.2S sec. 001 - Video Game Law (Summer 2022)
Instructor: Todd P Smithline (view instructor's teaching evaluations - degree students only | profile)
View all teaching evaluations for this course - degree students only
Units: 1
Grading Designation: Credit Only
Mode of Instruction: In-Person
Meetings:
F 2:00 PM - 6:10 PM
Location: Law 130
On 2022-06-10
Sa 09:00 AM - 6:10 PM
Location: Law 130
On 2022-06-11
Class Number: Click to show Class Number
Enrollment info:
Enrolled: 28
Waitlisted: 0
Enroll Limit: 34
As of: 10/18 06:15 PM
More than half of all Americans play video games whether through a browser, mobile device or game console and spending on interactive content now rivals that for TV and movies. Video games are great fun and big business, but what are the legal implications?
1. How has copyright law evolved in an era when a hit iPhone game can spawn a lookalike competitor within months?
2. Should trademark law prevent a developer from featuring a real-world vehicle or nightclub in their game?
3. As games become stunningly realistic, when does a depiction of a college quarterback violate their right of publicity?
We will answer these questions and more as we explore the legal issues surrounding how video games are developed, distributed and consumed. After learning the relevant law, we will assume the mantle of in-house counsel and conduct an “advise the CEO” exercise. The class ends with a take-home final exam.
This course is for credit/no credit. Attendance is mandatory.
Exam Notes: (TH) Take-home examination
Course Category: Intellectual Property and Technology Law
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