In the intricate world of intellectual property and corporate branding, a new conflict has emerged between two notable players in the gaming industry. Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, has entered into a trademark dispute with Remedy Entertainment over the latter’s new logo, which Take-Two claims bears a resemblance to the iconic R* logo of Rockstar Games.
This dispute traces its roots back to April of the previous year when Remedy unveiled its new logo in a blog post. The Finnish game developer, known for hits like “Max Payne,” explained that the redesign was a move to reflect its growth beyond a single game and to encapsulate its diverse portfolio. The new logo, featuring a stylized ‘R’, was meant to symbolize the evolution and modern vision of Remedy Entertainment.
However, the rebranding didn’t sit well with Take-Two Interactive. According to a report by RespawnFirst, the gaming giant raised concerns that the new logo could potentially cause confusion among the public due to its perceived similarity to Rockstar Games’ logo. This led Take-Two to oppose two trademark applications filed by Remedy for variations of their new logo shortly after its revelation.
Remedy Entertainment and Take Two Interactive are in a trademark dispute over Remedy's logo.
Disputed Logo 1: https://t.co/wY29pyReIv
Disputed Logo 2: https://t.co/oOlzd47usG pic.twitter.com/FuIMLRtBdj
— Jake (@usemyhandle) January 15, 2024
As of September of the previous year, both trademark claims remained contested, indicating an ongoing legal tussle between the two companies. This dispute is not the first of its kind for Take-Two. The company has been actively involved in various trademark and copyright claims in recent years, targeting different businesses and products.
A notable instance, as reported by Eurogamer, involved the developer Hazelight and its game “It Takes Two.” Hazelight faced a trademark claim from Take-Two in 2021 over the game’s title, leading to the abandonment of its own trademark application.
This series of legal battles underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding brand identity and intellectual property in the gaming industry. As companies seek to protect their trademarks and brand images, disputes like the one between Take-Two and Remedy highlight the fine line between inspiration and infringement in corporate branding.
