Patent process is very complicated, expensive, and not for every game company. The overall process of filing and having a patent can be very taxing to the company as it takes a very long time to be accomplished.
By definition, a patent is a protection for your intellectual property (that you invented) from being copied. In the case of your game idea, in the form of a patent, it is considered your invention.
A patent is unique in the fact that it can protect your idea. The concept for your game that is uniquely yours can be patented and the idea behind it protected.
That way, if during the course of your game development, one of your friends or coworkers helping you out tries to market their own version using your idea, they would be in violation of your patent and you could take them to court to make them stop.
But first, in order to patent a game, you’ll need a detailed design and it must meet certain criteria to ensure your concept meets the patent test. Before proceeding, it’s also important to understand that there is a difference between a copyright, trademark, and a patent.
In addition, design patents can protect your User Experience/User Interface. The fastest growing segment of design patent filings is in the UX/UI space. If you’re serious about protecting your video game and your user experience, you need to think carefully about protecting all its original aspects. You have to build value in your video game and in your company by creating a unique user experience that no one can copy.
However, there are some things to keep in mind with patents for games. One thing is how to prevent your game from being stolen. You don’t necessarily need to worry about theft until you have created something worth stealing. A game in the earliest stages of design is not very valuable. What is valuable is a game that has gone through most of the design process, including heavy playtesting.
On the other hand, you have to remember that a robust intellectual property portfolio increases the value of your company. To any potential buyer looking at two identical companies, the company that has its assets protected through a combination of registered copyrights, registered trademarks, and a portfolio of patents will be valued more highly than the company with nothing to show for its efforts.
In conclusion, re-assess the ability of your company and seek help if necessary. You have options but if you have the capability and mindset for a long term success, we recommend to invest early in your intellectual property so you can reap the benefits sooner.
