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Episode Name:
Navigating Game Contracts Like a Pro
Episode Description:
Publishing deals and working agreements can do everything from launch a game or sink a studio. But too often, devs and studios sign first without realizing they gave up too much.
So today, we’re going to go over what every developer should understand about publishing agreements, licensing and work-for-hire arrangements. From negotiation red flags to protecting your IP, you’ll know how to navigate legal decisions now to help you avoid financial and creative headaches tomorrow.
Q?Box Round Answers
What’s the most common mistake you see devs or studios make with their games?
Not taking care of legal matters early enough like partner agreements
What’s the one major thing you would want to accomplish in your lifetime?
Keep democratizing legal services
What game are you playing now?
Answer
TIPS and ADVICE
We covered quite a bit today. Could you list 3 suggestions or tips you would recommend to indie devs based on our discussion?
- Always be aware that a template contract reflects what you are actually going to do with a contractor. ´Standard´ does equal fair or right
- In case you ever negotiate a publishing agreement, please educate yourself by reading our free publishing guide
- Don´t feel anxious to reach out to video game lawyers for your contract. We do not bite, we´re human.
RESOURCES and LINKS
How to get in touch with René Otto
Website: http://www.deviantlegal.com/
E-mail: rene.otto@deviantlegal.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ren%C3%A9otto/
OTHER SOURCES:
https://deviantlegal.com/guide/game-developers-guide-publishing-agreements/