OGL question

[LinkMedia]

Just how much can you Modify the d20 system before its not copyright infringement.

I am crafting a new game system for publication, and some of the core elements of the d20 system are perfect. I was curious that if I "borrowed" from d20 would I still have to state that it is a d20 product? (and then of course have to include the OGL statement)

I am thinking of a non level based system with an original magic system, pseudo classes (more kits than classes) and simply want to borrow the skill system and combat/movement basics from d20.

If they were simply "similar" to the d20 concept (in some ways) would it still be OGL?

I appologize if this is in the wrong category, but I did not see one that fit this topic.

 

[Ranger REG]

Just how much can you Modify the d20 system before its not copyright infringement.

Under the OGL, you can modify any existing OGC any way you like. The only thing you must remember that any game content that is modified from a previously existing OGC must remain OGC, and you must include the source's information in the Copyright Notice.

I am crafting a new game system for publication, and some of the core elements of the d20 system are perfect. I was curious that if I "borrowed" from d20 would I still have to state that it is a d20 product? (and then of course have to include the OGL statement)

I am thinking of a non level based system with an original magic system, pseudo classes (more kits than classes) and simply want to borrow the skill system and combat/movement basics from d20.

If they were simply "similar" to the d20 concept (in some ways) would it still be OGL?

It would be OGL, which is okay.

If you think that your game & ruleset deviates far from the more common application of the d20 System (e.g., D&D, d20 Modern, Star Wars), then just don't use the d20 System Trademark License and the logo, which is okay.

Just be sure you fully understand the OGL's terms. I recommend consulting a lawyer as insurance.

 

[LinkMedia]

This is what I was thinking. I just didnt want to have to put the d20 stuff in there, but I want to use the skill system (or similiar mechanic) and I was worried that it would be deceptive to imply it was a d20 product when so very little of it is compatible with the d20 system.

I plan to use a purchase based level-less system where people could purchase points for skills etc, and that is likely the only part that WOULD be d20

 

[Ranger REG]

This is what I was thinking. I just didnt want to have to put the d20 stuff in there, but I want to use the skill system (or similiar mechanic) and I was worried that it would be deceptive to imply it was a d20 product when so very little of it is compatible with the d20 system.

I plan to use a purchase based level-less system where people could purchase points for skills etc, and that is likely the only part that WOULD be d20

AFAIC, OGC is OGC under the OGL. (I know, it's a mouthful.) Even though the more common OGC are d20 rules mechanics, other companies are using the OGL for their own rules mechanics and ruleset, like the Action! System.

IOW, the OGL is a very generic content license, just like the computer programming-based GPL/GNU.

 

[LinkMedia]

You lost me in the acronyms. lol

I guess my biggest concern is that as an alteration on the d20 license, that I would be required to make my concepts OGL as well. I guess its not that big of a deal if someone uses my ideas for a system (and then be required to give credit for where they got the system) but if thats the worst of it, then I guess its not so bad