WizKids Sues Wizards of the Coast over Game Patent

An anonymous reader writes "WizKids Games (makers of the HeroClix games) is suing Wizards of the Coast (makers of Magic: the Gathering), seeking judgment that their Pirates game does not infringe on a recently granted patent. From the article: '[T]he suit claims that WOTC contacted WizKids via a letter in May 2004 concerning the filing of the patent, and that WOTC asserted that WizKids Pirates game fell squarely within many of the proposed claims of the pending patent application. WOTC warned that when the patent [was] issued, WOTC would have the right to sue WizKids for an injunction and damages. WOTC threatened that it would take legal action against WizKids if or when a patent was allowed if WizKids did not cease and desist selling its Pirates game.' The suit asks the judge to declare that the Pirates game does not infringe and seek to stop Wizards of the Coast from pursuing any legal action. The patent in question is for a 'Constructible Strategy Game,' where players build models from punch-out cards sold in booster packs. The Pirates game seems to fit the patent description perfectly."

Patent Troll with 3D8 Battle Axe

[BillGatesLoveChild]

Too bad WOTC (you may know them as Hasbro) don't choose to focus on their core competency. You know: "making games", instead of these lame ass lawyer tricks.

"No Sir, It's a $25 fine for reversing over a patent troll in a supermarket car park. Just mail it in. "

Whiz Kids are suing?....

[Dogtanian]

...I always wondered what happened to them after their 80s TV show finished.

Re:quit

[MBGMorden]

I was in the same boat. Back when I started (I was in high school so we're talking 9-10+ years ago) the latest and greatest expansion was "Homelands". I remember those being around $2.50 per pack, and indeed, Fallen Empires were anywhere from $0.75 to $1.50. I bought LOADS of those cards. Not all of them really sucked too bad. :).

Problem is, I live(d) in a rural area. There were only 4-5 of us that played, and our parents became convinced that the game was "satanic" and we were all forced to quit playing (most of the other guys ended up being given an alternative Christian CCG to play instead). I was the only one who wasn't forced to also destroy or sell their cards, so I still have all of my collection from back then. These days with the $4-$5 per pack prices I buy a booster pack every other month or so for artwork. Haven't played in years.