NCsoft Sued for Infringing on ‘Virtual Space’ Patent

Can you patent ideas? Worlds did, back in 2000. Their patent for “system and method for enabling users to interact in a virtual space” is currently being put under scrutiny by NCsoft, who were unexpectedly hit with an infringement suit on Christmas Eve. According to Virtual Worlds News, Worlds claims “NCsoft has infringed on patent 7,181,690… through its games, including City of Heroes, City of Villains, Dungeon Runners, Exteel, Guild Wars, Lineage, Lineage II, and Tabula Rasa.“

This is understandably big news, for if NCsoft loses the case, which means they must pay for the damages the infringement has caused as well as being prevented from ever infringing the patent again, Worlds won’t stop there. Every MMO we have come to know, present and future, including World of Warcraft and Star Wars: The Old Republic, could all be potentially sued for infringement.

Aion, NCsoft's latest MMO, is expected to hit American shores later this year

Lets look at the facts. Considering the lengthy patent, Worlds does seem to have a good case. Their claims are very specific in explaining the essence of what a virtual world is, but it’s so broadly-defined that it makes everyone wonder what else could be claimed. Also, why was the lawsuit filed on December 24^th? Worlds wanted to hit NCsoft when they least suspected it, making them scramble with their pants down, meaning Worlds isn’t so confident about their position.

It’s no surprise why NCsoft was targeted when you think of the giants like Blizzard in comparison. Worlds is testing the waters with this case, and a win against NCsoft would mean the door is open for lawsuits falling from the skies. But as Shack News pointed out, Lineage was created well before the patent was filed, which might give the under fire company enough breathing room to assess the situation, go through the patent with a fine comb, and find a way out. You can bet all the publishers and creators of MMOs will be watching this one, because for Worlds, it’s for all the marbles. And for everyone else, it’s all or nothing.