Buckle up, my beasties, because we’re about to do a deep dive into divination patents.

This week, we’re going to look at one of the most famous, and creepiest, game-related patents ever granted: the patent for the Ouija board. Now, buckle up, my beasties, because we’re about to do a deep dive into divination patents.

Most people think of patents for things like new surgical tools or smartphone features. But a patent can be granted for any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, and yes, that includes a paranormal-themed game!

Let’s look at the most famous horror board game of the century. You know it. You may be scared of it. If Regan McNeal had left hers alone, Captain Howdy might have looked elsewhere. Movies have been spawned from it. It’s been in countless tv shows. It’s been around for long, long years under several names and has possibly stolen many a man’s soul and faith.

In this episode:

• The Ghost in the Patent Machine: Protecting the unique operation and construction of the device as a toy or game, NOT as a spirit medium (1:05)
• The Life and Death of a Patent: The story of the Ouija board is a perfect lesson in the limited lifespan of a patent (3:57)
• Protecting the Paranormal: What parts of spooky games can be patented, trademarked, and copyrighted (7:34)

#patent #intellectualproperty #kingpatentlaw #julieking #petrifyingpatents