Microsoft Also has things like WHQL to ensure compatability.
I don't think Wizards wants to have to run tests on every Open Gaming/D20
product to verify compatability. ANd that's the only way they could allow
free use of trademarks.
Lizard wrote:
> Microsoft, in general, LOVES it when people say "Compatible with
> windows!". Indeed, they've been hauled into court because they've been
> rather eager that no one release software which isn't. (Slight
> exaageration)
>
> So why would TSR/WOTC object to products 'compatible with D&D'?
> Consider:
>
> a)The more stuff that is out there 'for use with' D&D, the more
> incentive there is to buy the core rules. This is, after all, the
> business logic behind the open gaming initiative to begin with. "Wow!
> Look at all these cool supplements for use with D&D! I'd better buy it
> instead of Competing Game which doesn't have any cool stuff!"
>
> b)There is a fear of loss of revenue from competing add-on products. But
> let's be real here -- what are the odds Moms Basement Games can produce
> a higher-quality add-on than WOTC can? And, if MBG *can*, WOTC just
> hires the designers for three times what they can earn at MBG.
>
> c)There is a problem of crappy products bearing the D&D logo creating
> 'bad blood' towards the original game. However, things such as 'trade
> dress' make it mandatory that supplemental products have a different
> 'look and feel' than TSR-branded products. I don't know of anyone who
> thought Mayfair, Judges Guild, or Arduin products were from TSR, and any
> disappointment in those products was aimed at the publishers, NOT at D&D
> itself.
> -------------
> For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
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For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
