Zenimax Files For Trademark On A Skyrim Internet Meme | Techdirt
We are all aware of the aggressive nature of Bethesda parent company Zenimax when it comes to trademarks. We now learn that it is not only aggressive in defense of its trademarks but is also an aggressive filer of trademarks for things surrounding its properties. Fusible is reporting that Zenimax has recently filed 6 different trademark applications covering a variety of uses of the phrase “Fus Ro Dah”.
For those of you not in the know, “Fus Ro Dah” is a phrase spoken by characters in the Bethesda game Skyrim when casting a spell that sends a blast of energy knocking back anything in its path.
Artikeln fortsätter:
Unfortunately, this move to trademark a meme can actually result in its premature death. Memes are born in the wild and are best able to grow and spread if left to the whims and wiles of those on the internet. Memes cannot be controlled or tamed. If Zenimax’s trademark filing is approved, the moment it makes its first move toward control, such as sending a cease and desist or taking down a video, it will feel a backlash by fans of Skyrim.
Problemet är väl att man har svårt att kontrollera hur ens användare pratar om produkterna när de väl släpps ut i världen. Internet-memes är dessutom snabbrörliga mål och de föds, används och dör långt innan en juridisk process har hunnit behandla ärendet…