Copyright Lawyers Kill Pokémon Party

A number of dedicated Pokémon fans heading to Seattle's PAX gaming conference were disappointed when they arrived on Thursday to find their pre-show, Pokémon themed party canceled. The cancelation was due to the involvement of the Pokémon Company's copyright lawyers, who claimed the event was a celebration of infringement. 

Company officials first found out about the party through a posted that included two Pokémon characters, PIkachu and Snivy. The day before the party could happen, they sued the conference to stop it.

According to the complaint, "Defendants boast that the '5th Annual Unofficial Pokémon PAX Kickoff Party' will feature among other things, 'Pokémon themed shots and drinks – Smash Bros. Tournament with cash prize – Dancing – Giveaways – Cosplay Contest and more,' and an "AMAZIN POKEMON MASHUP."

The lawsuit names the party's two organizers, Ramar Larkin Jones and Zach shore, as well as their company, Ruckus Productions, as defendants. The party was sold out by the time the complaint was filed, and it was quickly canceled in response, with its Eventbrite and Facebook pages taken down as well.

The party has been a PAX staple since 2011, though this is the first time any legal action has been taken to stop it.

The Pokémon Company has "official" live events around the world, including championships and tournaments for the trading card game. Domestic merchandise sales total over $6 million yearly.

If you are in the middle of a copyright dispute, or if you think someone else is profiting from your work, it is important to speak with a skilled Arizona business attorney. A lawyer can help protect your rights in case of litigation.

Categorised in: Intellectual Property Law

This post was written by