Should video game IP's have a "use it or lose it" system in place?

[Dan The Man]

Been thinking a lot about old game IP's that publishers have under lock and key with no intention of ever using again. And I was wondering if it would be a good idea to have some sort of cut-off of ownership if it sits unused for a set amount of time.

So for instance. If a new silent hill title isn't made in the span of say, 5 years, it is sold to the highest bidder to make use of it.

There are far too many good IP's sat around doing nothing and I feel like there are delelopers out there passionate enough to make something new within those universes.

There are issues that could come from it of course, ie. low effort, low budget trash being released just to maintain ownership. But I feel like it could also act as potential incentive to make good output using franchises people loved and never would have otherwise seen again.

Do you think something like that would even work? Or would there be too many issues involved?

 

[テクニカル諏訪子]

There is the whole "copyright" system meaning it remain ownership for about whole age after maker's death.

 

[Jerrar]

Nah man, sometimes a franchise goes stale only to be revived years later or remastered. And it re-ignites interest in the fans. Plus it not possible when you own the copyright. Though its possible when you license a copyright and don't use it.

 

[Demon_Skeith]

I'm for it, nothing is shameful to see an IP collect dust on the shelf *eyes perfect dark*

 

[Grungie]

Copyrights are 70 years before it becomes public domain. If it’s a bought license, it varies from contract to contract. So Activision no longer owns the rights to make Tony Hawk games.

 

[Demon_Skeith]

Copyrights are 70 years before it becomes public domain. If it’s a bought license, it varies from contract to contract. So Activision no longer owns the rights to make Tony Hawk games.

this is true.