Can someone explain the OGL please

[gamesmeister]

I have questions regarding the OGL in general, which I guess is more for Matt but as it's a bank holiday weekend he's probably away sunning himself on his Caribbean island... :wink:

I have to admit I don't really understand how it all works, but my primary questions is this - is the text in the RQ SRD open for general use, to be altered and rewritten as desired, or is fixed text to be referred to in third party publications?

For example, let's say I decide to publish a version of RQ set in the Wild West, along the lines of Deadlands. The first chapter I write is Character Generation. Can I take all the appropriate text from the SRD, alter it to my own requirements (rewriting some sections, copying others, and deleting still others), add all my new professions, and package the whole thing together as chapter 1 of my rulebook?

Or am I only allowed to create my own professions, but with regards to how those professions are used when creating a character, refer the reader to the RQ rulebook or SRD?

Same goes for combat. I would need to add rules for pistols, rifles, and dynamite, but I could effectively use the existing rules for swords, bows, and hatchets. If I printed an equipment list including weapons, can I just copy the latter entries from the SRD or is this against the license?

Obviously I would add all the necessary legal boilerplates to my book to acknowledge that I'm using OGL content - I'm just not sure what I'm allowed to do under the rules of the OGL.

 

[AKAramis]

My understanding of it is that the SRD, and ONLY the SRD, is fair game, for RQ. *

You can use it as is, add to it, delete from it, morph it, etc. You must include attribution of everything you've used or simply modified.

What you don't get to do is label it RuneQuest...

-----
* The rulebooks state that their content isn't open. The SRD, however, includes a subset of that content, and that content is, by definition in the OGL, open content. It's a clarity issue: by releasing the SRD with only open content, and the product without, one must go to the SRD, rather than the product, for finding the open content.

 

[gamesmeister]

What you don't get to do is label it RuneQuest...

Really? What's the point of the SRD in that case?

 

[medievaladventures]

You can change rules, derive new systems/items, etc. from the SRD and publish them. All the rules you derive from the SRD will have to be open content per the terms of the OGL.

If you use the RuneQuest logo, then the terms of the licensing agreement prohibit you from including Characteristic generation rules and from changing the Characteristic terms.

Basically, if your product will include full character generation that can stand alone without the main rule book, then you are prohibited from using the logo.

 

[zozotroll]

To make it easy to see what is open content.

 

[gamesmeister]

Ah, gotcha, thanks

 

[Ari]

If you use the RuneQuest logo, then the terms of the licensing agreement prohibit you from including Characteristic generation rules and from changing the Characteristic terms.

I was wondering if anyone knew where the RuneQuest Logo Licensing agreement actually is. I have searched earlier posts which mention it being in the SRD documents but apparently this is not (no longer?) the case?

cheers, Ari

 

[Magistus]

If you use the RuneQuest logo, then the terms of the licensing agreement prohibit you from including Characteristic generation rules and from changing the Characteristic terms.

I was wondering if anyone knew where the RuneQuest Logo Licensing agreement actually is. I have searched earlier posts which mention it being in the SRD documents but apparently this is not (no longer?) the case?

cheers, Ari

What are you talking about?

http://www.mongoosepublishing.com/pdf/rqsrd.zip

 

[Ari]

If you use the RuneQuest logo, then the terms of the licensing agreement prohibit you from including Characteristic generation rules and from changing the Characteristic terms.

I was wondering if anyone knew where the RuneQuest Logo Licensing agreement actually is. I have searched earlier posts which mention it being in the SRD documents but apparently this is not (no longer?) the case?

cheers, Ari

What are you talking about?

http://www.mongoosepublishing.com/pdf/rqsrd.zip

Sorry, I probably should have explained better.

The "rqsrd.zip" above contains the following files:
- RQ_OGL.doc
- RQ_SRD_Creatures.doc
- RQ_SRD_Magic.doc
- RQ_SRD_Adventuring.doc
- RQ_SRD_Cults.doc
- RQ_SRD_Skills.doc
- RQ_SRD_Combat.doc
- RQ_SRD_Equipment.doc
- RQ_SRD_Creating_an_Adventurer.doc
- RQ_SRD_Improving Adventurers.doc

Of which the "RQ_OGL.doc" says that I could use the stuff that is in the RQ SRD but that I'm not allowed to say that anything I create, e.g. scenarios, is compatible with RuneQuest. Which probably defeats the purpose if I wanted to share it on the web since no one who wanted to use it for RuneQuest would ever find it.

In searching through old posts I read that in order to use the RQ SRD and say that is compatible with RuneQuest or even mention the word (and I guess to use the RuneQuest logo) you need to follow this thing called the "RuneQuest Logo Licence" which is apparently similar to the "d20" licence, which apparently has some resrictions (e.g. don't change what characteristics mean, don't subvert character generation).

Apparently I would also need to sign some form and return it to Mongoose. But I can neither find the licence or form in the SRD or anywhere?

cheers, Ari

 

[RosenMcStern]

You are not prohibite to say that what you create is compatible with RuneQues. In fact you are encouraged to do so. The only point is that you must not rework the character generation process if you want to use the RuneQuest _logo_, which is different from the RuneQuest Trademark, and in this case you must specify that players need to own the core rulebook to use what you wrote. In any case it is fair to not overlap the contents of the core books even when you are not using the logo.

Apparently, when the SRD zip was updated to include the new Player update, the RQ Logo licence form was left over. In the ZIP I have the form is present. PM me with your email and I'll send you the form.

P.S. - moderators, this also implies that the SRD zip should be corrected and checked for other mistakes / omissions, shouldn't it?

 

[Se Chris]

I am told that if you want to get your hands on the logo licence you need to get in touch with Matt - msprange@mongoosepublishing.com

 

[medievaladventures]

Yeah, it used to be part of the zip download, but isn't anymore. I would recommend Mongoose putting the terms back online, even if you guys still want the signed licensing agreement form to only be available upon contact. That way people at least know what it entails.

 

[Ari]

You are not prohibite to say that what you create is compatible with RuneQues. In fact you are encouraged to do so. The only point is that you must not rework the character generation process if you want to use the RuneQuest _logo_, which is different from the RuneQuest Trademark, and in this case you must specify that players need to own the core rulebook to use what you wrote. In any case it is fair to not overlap the contents of the core books even when you are not using the logo.

Thanks all for the info.

Ultimately, so long as I can say a scenario is compatible with RuneQuest then that is enough for me.

cheers, Ari

 

[AKAramis]

The Logo License was available for those who asked for the RQ developer's kit.

Here's an IANAL synopsis:

1) you can't publish under the RQSTL until Mongoose has received your license paperwork.

2) Mongoose can withdraw the license at any time, and can cause you to withdraw and destroy any product released under the RQSTL

3) Requirements of the RQSTL are subject to change at any time.

4) English Only - unless exempted.

5) Logo must be on front, may be on back, spine, and pages, and may only be altered by resizing.

6) Must use the system requirements boilerplate

7) Must include the trademarks boilerplate

8) Can't use RuneLord, RunePriest, RuneQuest in titles

9) Allows using the STL Trademark Logo in ads, and includes boilerplate

10) How to reference the RQMRB, aka the RQ Main Rulebook, aka the RuneQuest Main Rulebook

11) Can't detail generating stats nor characters, can redefine nor rename the Atts, but can use the standard abbreviations

12) Lists reserved titles

13) Glorantha is off-limits

14) You can get the PSD logo from MSprange

15) send two copies to Mongoose, one for the office, one for Greg.

 

[Magistus]

13) Glorantha is off-limits

Does this mean that Newhon, or the other settings for RuneQuest are ok?

 

[medievaladventures]

13) Glorantha is off-limits

Does this mean that Newhon, or the other settings for RuneQuest are ok?

No, they are all from closed (i.e. not OGL) books. Additionally, any information on the settings would be considered Product Identity if found in an OGL book. One last thing about the settings is that most of the setting material is from licensed properties, not properties wholly owned by Mongoose.

 

[gamesmeister]

The Logo License was available for those who asked for the RQ developer's kit.

Here's an IANAL synopsis:

<snip>

11) Can't detail generating stats nor characters, can redefine nor rename the Atts, but can use the standard abbreviations

Thanks for this, however point 11 raises another question

When I asked my original question I asked about rewriting the CharGen rules, but really I could have been referring to any rules section e.g. Combat, or Equipment, or any other that springs to mind.

Now point 11 specifically prevents me from rewriting the CharGen rules, but does that mean that everything else is fair game? Can I rewrite the Combat rules to suit my new Wild West RQ game, and still use the RQ logo?

It would be nice to get some definitive answers from Matt & co, but unfortunately they'll all be at Gencon UK by now (which unfortunately I can't make, even though I only live a few miles away ).

 

[RosenMcStern]

Well, in fact everyone and his dog is rewriting the combat rules lately....

Seriously, the combat rules are likely to have optional rules to suit the setting. So it is considered, to some extent, fair game to devise some variations. Even important ones.

The point is that 3rd party products are intended to boost, not hamper, the core system, hence the important requirement: make it clear that the base books are still needed. Even though you are "houseruling" something.

In any case, if I were you, I would not "rewrite from scratch" anything. Giving "options" is much better.

 

[medievaladventures]

When I asked my original question I asked about rewriting the CharGen rules, but really I could have been referring to any rules section e.g. Combat, or Equipment, or any other that springs to mind.

Now point 11 specifically prevents me from rewriting the CharGen rules, but does that mean that everything else is fair game? Can I rewrite the Combat rules to suit my new Wild West RQ game, and still use the RQ logo?

Yes, the restriction is specific to the Characteristics portion.

Here is the text from the logo license:

RuneQuest Logo Licence 1.0

The RuneQuest Logo Licence is a non-transferable, non-exclusive, non-sublicensable, royalty free arrangement between Mongoose Publishing and third party publishers and development studios. It permits the free use of the RuneQuest logo on third party gaming books (both printed and electronic).


Open Game Licence
The RuneQuest (TM) System Reference Document (SRD) is produced under the Open Gaming Licence (included in the RuneQuest (TM) Developer’s Pack). This allows anyone to use the RuneQuest (TM) SRD freely, so long as they follow all the requirements laid out in the Open Game Licence. The use of the RuneQuest (TM) logo, however, is not permitted under the Open Game Licence.


Use of the RuneQuest (TM) Logo
The following requirements are necessary for the RuneQuest logo to be used on any gaming book, be it printed or electronic.

1. Before a third party may publish any books using the RuneQuest (TM) logo, the RuneQuest Logo Licence Acceptance Form (found within the RuneQuest (TM) Developer’s Pack) must be returned to Mongoose Publishing using the address or fax details below, and its receipt acknowledged by Mongoose Publishing. If a third party’s contact details change, the RuneQuest logo Licence Acceptance Form must be re-submitted.

Mongoose Publishing
52-54 Cricklade Road
Swindon
Wilts
SN2 8AF
United Kingdom

Fax: +44 (0) 1793 487999

2. Mongoose Publishing reserves the right to withdraw the right to use the RuneQuest logo from any third party at any time. Mongoose Publishing also reserves the right to order cessation of sales and the destruction of any remaining stock under this circumstance. It should be noted that Mongoose Publishing is committed to a strong relationship with third parties using the RuneQuest logo and that this instruction will only be given under extreme circumstances that threaten to bring the RuneQuest (TM) trademark into disrepute. If in doubt, third parties may always discuss potential projects with Mongoose Publishing first (msprange@mongoosepublishing.com).

3. Mongoose Publishing reserves the right to change the requirements necessary for the use of the RuneQuest logo at any time. All third parties who have returned the RuneQuest logo Acceptance Form will be automatically notified by email of any changes.

4. The RuneQuest logo may only be used with English language gaming books (both printed and electronic). Foreign translations, novels, miniatures, computer games and other media are specifically exempt from this agreement. Third parties interested in producing such material are invited to contact Mongoose Publishing (msprange@mongoosepublishing.com) for a separate licence.

5. The RuneQuest logo (found in the RuneQuest (TM) Developer’s Pack) must be displayed on the front cover of all gaming books produced under this agreement. Optionally, it may also be reproduced on the spine, rear cover and on pages within gaming books. The logo must not be altered in any way other than in size. If the size is altered, the proportions of width and height must be maintained. The logo on the front cover must be at least 60mm wide. Logos used elsewhere may be smaller.

6. The following text must be included on either the front or rear cover of every gaming book produced under this agreement.

Requires the use of the RuneQuest (TM) Main Rulebook, available from Mongoose Publishing.

7. The following text must be included within every gaming book produced under this agreement.

“RuneQuest (TM)” and the RuneQuest logo are Trademarks owned by Issaries, Inc. and are used according to the terms of the RuneQuest logo Licence version 1.0. A copy of this licence can be obtained from Mongoose Publishing. The mention or reference to any company or product in these pages is not a challenge to the trademark or copyright concerned.

8. The term “RuneQuest”, “RuneLord”, “RunePriest” or any foreign translation of “RuneQuest”, “RuneLord”, “RunePriest” or their plurals may not be used in the title of any gaming book produced under this agreement.

9. The term “RuneQuest” and the RuneQuest logo may be used in marketing a gaming book produced under this agreement. This must be accompanied by the following text.

“RuneQuest” and the RuneQuest logo are Trademarks owned by Issaries, Inc. and are used with permission. The RuneQuest Main Rulebook is available from Mongoose Publishing.

10. The RuneQuest Main Rulebook may be referred to in gaming books produced under this agreement as the “RuneQuest Main Rulebook” or “RQ Main Rulebook” or “RQMB”.

11. Gaming books produced under this agreement may not detail the process of generating and assigning scores to Characteristics. In addition, the terms used for Characteristics (Strength, Constitution, Dexterity, Size, Intelligence, Power and Charisma) may not be changed. They may be abbreviated to STR, CON, DEX, SIZ, INT, POW and CHA respectively. Readers may be referred to the RuneQuest (TM) Main Rulebook in order to generate and assign scores to Characteristics.

12. The following titles of gaming books are reserved for use by Mongoose Publishing and may not be used by third parties under this agreement: Ancient Runes, Arms & Equipment, Legendary Heroes, ModernQuest, Runes of Chaos, RuneQuest Companion, RuneQuest Games Master’s Screen, RuneQuest Monsters, SpaceQuest.

13. The use of the term Glorantha or any material directly connected to the Glorantha setting is expressly prohibited by this agreement.

14. A high-quality PSD file of the RuneQuest logo may be obtained from msprange@mongoosepublishing.com

15. It is requested that two copies of each gaming book (printed or electronic) produced under this agreement be sent to Mongoose Publishing (address listed under point 1 above). This is not a requirement, merely a courtesy – both ourselves and Greg Stafford simply wish to maintain a healthy interest in what third party publishers are doing with our material!

It would be nice to get some definitive answers from Matt & co, but unfortunately they'll all be at Gencon UK by now (which unfortunately I can't make, even though I only live a few miles away ).

Most of your answers should be taken care of now that you can see the text of the logo license and use it in conjunction with the OGL text.

 

[Magistus]

12. The following titles of gaming books are reserved for use by Mongoose Publishing and may not be used by third parties under this agreement: Ancient Runes, Arms & Equipment, Legendary Heroes, ModernQuest, Runes of Chaos, RuneQuest Companion, RuneQuest Games Master’s Screen, RuneQuest Monsters, SpaceQuest.

Hmmmm We know SpaceQuest will not be made at this time, but what is ModernQuest, is this something we will see? I had posted a Modern set of rules for RQ in the What should Mongoose publish next.