As you may have heard, Wizards of the Coast is poised to release a new version of the Open Game License (v1.1). Parts of the license have been leaked online and it appears that Wizards' intent is to revoke the current version of the OGL, forcing creators to adopt the new version. Whether this is actually legal for them to do, under the terms of the license, is seemingly open to interpretation.
A huge number of games, including our own Old-School Essentials, are founded on the Open Game License. If that license were revoked, such games would be in jeopardy. The leaked version of the new OGL includes some extremely unappealing terms, most notably granting Wizards a "nonexclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, sub-licensable, royalty-free license" to use content released under the OGL "for any purpose".
Needless to say, we are making various contingency plans in anticipation of the official release of the new OGL. Once the official release happens and we've had time to fully digest its implications, we will announce any possible alterations to our publication schedule.
39 comments
I remember when DnD first came out back around 1974. I enjoyed the old Red Box and Blue Box versions. I missed the simplicity of the original. So, when I found OSE I was elated. I truly hope that WoTC can’t revoke OGL v1.0 at all. I too will continue to support you.
Even if it IS legal what Necrotic Gnome is doing, WotC may still lawyer up and sue just because they know the legal fees could ruin the company even if they lose.
The TLDR: Yes we have read it. Yes it is scary. But until we get the official document we can do not but prepare.
In Necrotic Gnome we trust
I know game development is long and costly. I would support any way I can the creation of a new unique game system made by you so that your awesome materials can continue – kickstarter, art sales, other?