Legislation
Copyright legislation helps protect the work that game developers create. It stops other people from copying or using work without permission.
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
This law protects original work created by game developers. This includes artwork, music, sound effects, characters, stories, animations and computer code.
Copyright is created automatically when the work is made. Developers do not need to apply for it.
Using someone else’s work without permission may be copyright infringement.
Digital Economy Act 2010
This law helps protect copyrighted content online.
It was introduced to reduce illegal downloading, sharing and distribution of digital content such as games, music and films.
It helps creators and companies protect their work from online piracy.
Trade Marks Act 1994
This law protects names, logos and brands.
A game developer can register a trade mark to stop other companies from using a similar name or logo. This helps players identify genuine games and products.
Examples include game titles, company names and logos.
Why Do Game Developers Need These Laws?
These laws help developers:
- Protect their creative work
- Receive credit for their creations
- Earn money from their games
- Prevent others from copying their work
- Build a recognisable brand
Without these laws, it would be much easier for people to copy games, artwork and other digital content.