GameCube exclusive Eternal Darkness is famous for its patented sanity system - but the rights have now expired. So, could anyone copy it? We asked a lawyer.

I think the big problem is when companies apply for patents but never utilize them. In my ideal world, patents should quickly expire and opened to the public if they aren’t being used. Like, what’s the point of protecting your idea if you have no intention to use it anytime soon?

That could deal with the patent troll problem as well.

MrScottyTay
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85d

Yeah I’m not against patents in general because it’s meant to allow the company or individual a chance to be only one on the market so they can recoup rnd costs instead of someone else coming in and undercutting them immediately.

The issue is they last too long. Especially idea ones like this for software. 5 years is what it should be around about.

@[email protected]
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15d

I’d even be okay with patents lasting more than 5 years as long as the patented concept is being actively utilized. Essentially, use it or lose it.

@[email protected]
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25d

What the point is? To cripple your competition. Nintendo is actively discouraging game development. If Nintendo was a human they would be garbage. Since they’re not human, everyone who choose to work for them is garbage.

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