Key Takeaways
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- Nintendos patent for the backup character mechanic is being reevaluated by John A. Squires, head of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, due to questions about its originality.
- Similar mechanics have been previously patented by Konami (Yabe, 2002) and Nintendo (Taura, 2020).
- The reevaluation could result in the patent being upheld, modified, or rejected, potentially affecting Nintendos exclusive rights to the backup character mechanic.
- If the patent is annulled, other developers would be free to use this game mechanic, and it raises industry-wide questions about the value of patenting commonplace game mechanics.
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Reevaluation of Nintendo’s Backup Character Patent Questions Game Mechanic Originality
John A. Squires, head of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, has initiated a reevaluation of a Nintendo patent that allows players to introduce a backup character during fights, either independently or with strategic assistance. Squires questions the patent’s originality, citing similar mechanics in earlier patents from Konami (Yabe, 2002) and Nintendo (Taura, 2020). The reevaluation will determine the patent’s originality. The patent could be upheld, modified, or rejected based on the review. The situation presents potential risks for Nintendo. An annulled patent would allow other developers to freely use the backup character mechanic. The review also prompts industry-wide questions about the value of patenting commonplace game mechanics. While Nintendo’s patent remains in place, Squires’ decision to reexamine it suggests doubts about its novelty.
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In our quest to keep you informed about all things gaming and beyond, we’ve got a trio of fascinating reads for you. First up, Marcus Thompson has penned an insightful analysis that might just surprise you – “Oblivion: Remaster is This Year’s Most Successful Relaunch”. Published on November 4th, Marcus delves into Ampere Analysis’ study, revealing that remakes typically outshine remasters financially, but Oblivion: Remaster stands as a notable exception with an impressive 7 million monthly players and $180 million in earnings. Dive into the details here Oblivion: Remaster is This Year’s Most Successful Relaunch. Next, Carlos Mendoza shares exciting news from the LEGO Group over at Players for Life – ‘LEGO Back to the Future DeLorean on its Way’, published on November 3rd. Mark your calendars for January 1st, 2026, as that’s when you can snag the €27.99 Speed Champions set featuring both versions of the time-traveling car complete with Mr. Fusion and side wheels. Check it out here LEGO Back to the Future DeLorean on its Way. Lastly, Bruno Pferd reveals Nintendo’s partnership with Laced Records to release an exclusive vinyl collection featuring the original soundtrack from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Spanning eight luxurious records and boasting over 130 tracks, this set marks a significant shift in Nintendo’s approach to commercializing their music. Immerse yourself in Bruno’s deep dive here Luxurious 8-Vinyl Set for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s Game Soundtrack by Nintendo.
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Groove Coaster: Initial Initial Echo Ego |
| Brief Summary | undefined |
| Genre | Music |
| Play Modes | Single player |
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