After Harmonix, it's now Gibson Guitar's turn to slap a lawsuit against Activision, publisher of the very popular video game, "Guitar Hero" -- over patent rights.Meanwhile, Activision has asked a US court to nullify the claim made by Gibson Guitar, alleging it's only for the purpose of raking in moolah by claiming damages.
Gibson Guitar, renowned guitar-maker, is partner to RedOctane -- original developer of "Guitar Hero" -- and has filed charges in a Los Angeles District Court claiming Activision's "Guitar Hero" violates one of their patents (1999) that involves technology for simulating a musical performance. Gibson has filed a copy of the patent to the court, which illustrates a method for using instruments to simulate a live performance, and provides for a 3D headset with stereo speakers.
What Gibson Guitar wants is for Activision to obtain a license under its patent, or halt all shipments of "Guitar Hero". Meanwhile, Activision claims that Gibson Guitar's not taking action against the same for three years since the game was originally launched acts as an implied license anyways.
The "Guitar Hero" franchise has earned Activision over $1 billion since its inception, after selling more than 14 million copies in North America alone. Source
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