Copyright / IP Attorney for tabletop game design (Ohio)
Mississippi Jul 22, 2026
Hello, I am a physician in Ohio designing a tabletop pulmonary board review game called Dungeons & Dyspnea™, which merges high-yield medical concepts with tabletop RPG mechanics. The project has recently moved past the hobbyist phase: representation for a prominent figure in the tabletop actual-play space has expressed formal interest in the concept. However, complications have arisen regarding IP negotiations, including friction with a major medical association that is hesitating due to the existing trademark. Additionally, we are looking at alternative backing options, such as discussions with a major pharmaceutical company through division leadership. Given this escalation toward potential licensing and publishing, I need to secure proper legal representation to protect my intellectual property. My legal questions are: What steps should I take to legally protect and clear the IP for custom game mechanics, narrative frameworks, and branded assets? How should I approach reviewing incoming licensing and partnership proposals from management teams and potential corporate backers when a trademark has already created friction with a partner? What key clauses need to be in place for work-for-hire and collaboration contracts with co-developers, artists, and learning designers? Location: Just moved from Mississippi -> to Ohio, United States Thanks!
