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Comment further information (Score 2) 494

I guess it was a bad choice of name. I would happy to rename the app, but because my access to the app is now disabled, I can't do this.
Of course I could get access by filing a counter notice, but was too scared to do this :-P

To answer of the "rip off" accusations: My understanding of copyright is that it's perfectly acceptable to create something that is inspired by something else as long as the original source material is not used. I would add that there are plenty other pacman clones out there with a variety of names, so I don't believe the mere act of making a similar game is a breach. It is different from the original in that
- graphics are different (but in some cases similar)
- sound is different
- ghost movement is different
- number of dots in maze is different

Submission + - Avoiding DMCA woes as an independent developer

androidstevep writes: I was just on the receiving end of DMCA takedown notice for my game in Android Market, "Super Pac".

Namco Bandai have filed the notice with Google, claiming breach of copyright of their game "Pac-Man". Although my version is obviously inspired by the original arcade game, no original artwork or sound has been copied. The problem from my point of view is that the DMCA notice is not clear where or why the breach is alleged. My guess is that maybe the name is too similar, although I did a trademark search for "Super Pac" before release and came up with nothing. Furthermore, Google have disabled my access to this app, presumably as required by the DMCA, so I am unable to even make whatever modifications would be required.

As a part-time developer with limited means (ie can't afford expensive lawyers), but willing to make best efforts to avoid legal issues, how does one negotiate what seems to be a difficult minefield of trademarks, copyrights and DMCA? Does anyone have tips in this area?

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