Copyright and Videogames

Videogame modifications, or add-ons created by players for existing videogames, are valuable from a copyright perspective. Not only are they a form of creative practice, they are also a means of promoting expressive diversity and cultural participation in a sector that continues to be dominated  by a limited number of perspectives. In practice, however, the creation of these modifications often involves the copying of one or more protected works, putting players at risk of liability for copyright infringement. This is due to two factors: first, the broad scope and indeterminate boundaries of the ‘substantial part’ doctrine; and second, the absence of a clear copyright exception on which players can rely. The focus of this seminar will be on designing a copyright exception which is capable of accommodating this form of user creativity, while ensuring that the economic incentives offered by copyright are not unduly undermined.

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Each year the OIPRC hosts a number of leading academics from around the world as part of its Invited Speaker Series. These events typically run from 5:15-6:45pm on Thursday evenings at St. Peter’s College; if the venue or time is different, it will be noted on the Events calendar.  The Speaker Series consists of a presentation of about 45 minutes, followed by a Q&A session with the assembled group of academic staff, students (both undergraduate and graduate), researchers, and interested members of the public.  Discussion is informal and includes participants from several disciplines, with a wide range of prior knowledge.

Convenors: Robert Burrell, Dev Gangjee and Robert Pitkethly

Refreshments and snacks are served at the conclusion of the discussion.  All are welcome.