Viacom Makes Then Retracts Lawsuit Against Activision, Everyone Keeps On Rocking
It can always be tough when a studio goes through a change of ownership/publisher. Who gets to keep what properties, technology and even staff at times. Harmonix's (the creator of Rock Band and the first two Guitar Hero games) move to MTV Games from Activision is a good example of this, with both games using the same fundamental engine and technology for guitar gameplay.
Sadly the transition has not been a smooth one for eitherr publisher, with Viacom (who owns MTV, and Subsequently MTV Games as well) suing Activision for over $14.5 million in unpaid royalties for GHIII and it's spin-offs on Monday. This stems from Harmonix's original contract with RedOctane that a higher Royalty rate must be paid if it builds or incorporates any property derived from Harmonix's property:
"(Activision) has failed to pay Harmonix its full share of royalties earned in connection with Harmonix's essential and undisputed contributions of its intellectual property and technology to the bestselling video game `Guitar Hero III,"' the lawsuit asserts.
In layman's terms: if they don't build the game and engine from scratch. Ouch. But the story doesn't end there....
On Tuesday night, Viacom withdrew the lawsuit, with Activision, most likely under the pressure of facing a long drawn legal battle, deciding to settle and discuss the matter outside of court. Things happen fast in LA (where the suit was filed), don't they?
Guitar Hero is such a huge property, it wouldn't make sense for the publishing giant to jeopardize it's biggest asset over something as simple as royalties. Also, in a way it shows just how little innovation each new title in the series is bringing to the table. It'll be interesting to see how this turns out, and even if it affects future games.
Viacom Withdraws 'Guitar' suit [Variety]
Mr.Mog!
Posted to Video Games on 12 March 2008
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