Article
Navigating IPR Challenges in the Online Gaming Industry: A Study from International Perspective
With changing technology and innovation, the online gaming industry has plethora of challenges to be met to include diversified business models. The complexity of applying intellectual property rights (IPR) in the online gaming sector is one of the main obstacles. There is a very thin line between uses which are legal and uses which are unauthorized, and to navigate this is a complicated piece of work. This research paper outlines the pivotal requirement for developing a diversified legal supporting structure which balances out the interests of all parties, encourages innovation and ensures fearless growth of online gaming industry. The issues involve infringement of copyrights, trademark rights, publicity rights and the infringement of rights concerning new age technology such as blockchain. The paper helps to highlight that how players of online gaming protect their rights through the usage of smart contracts. This research paper dwells into the current application of IPR in online gaming and makes a comprehensive study of IPR in various countries. This research paper brings forth the various complexities related to Intellectual Property Rights in online gaming industry both at the national and international level. The author has attempted to discuss case laws which help in bringing forth the trends that are being followed globally to protect IPR related to online gaming. This research paper also suggests the best practices which can be adopted by the online gaming industry to empower their legal framework in the field of IPR. Building up the legal framework to work beyond borders is the key to tackle the challenges that the nature of online gaming industries present.