What is the fate of the GSL and the companies chosing not to use it?

[Cwheeler]

It seems like many companies are chosing to veto the GSL, publishing Fourth Edition material on their own terms.

How are they going about this and what are the likely ramifications?

 

[Brown Jenkin]

It seems like many companies are chosing to veto the GSL, publishing Fourth Edition material on their own terms.

How are they going about this and what are the likely ramifications?

They are going about this by following Copyright and Trademark law and making sure that what they produce doesn't violate either. As for the ramifications, only WotC can say.

 

[Cwheeler]

They are going about this by following Copyright and Trademark law and making sure that what they produce doesn't violate either.

I know next to nothing of American copyright law. What does this process entail? is it only viable for larger companies, or will smaller publishers be able to peruse this avenue as well?

 

[Ranger REG]

I know next to nothing of American copyright law. What does this process entail? is it only viable for larger companies, or will smaller publishers be able to peruse this avenue as well?

Whether the company is big or small, anyone who is savvy should have at least consulted or retained a lawyer specialized in the field of IP laws.