Running an XBox Charity Event

[Gerry]

A teacher just phoned asking for advice for his students on running an XBox charity event for the Air Ambulance. The only thing I could think of is problems with copyright/licensing and suggested they contact the publishers of the game(s) they would like to use.

 

Anyone else with any thoughts?

[jamesb]

Are they going to be asking for donations for people to play, or doing some sort of sponsorship?

 

If its the sponsorship option I don't really see that there'd be an issue. Its not like a PC game, so long as people have legal copies and legal XBoxes I'd've thought it would be fine.

 

If they're going to be asking for donations I'm not so sure, but talking to a local internet cafe (preferably one which also offers XBox time) would shed some light on what's required.

[powdarrmonkey]

If its the sponsorship option I don't really see that there'd be an issue. Its not like a PC game, so long as people have legal copies and legal XBoxes I'd've thought it would be fine.

 

How is it any different?

 

I think you're wise to at least speak to the rights holders of the game, even just out of courtesy. None of us here are lawyers. If you pitch it to them as a charity event, they will probably be quite favourable towards you.

[Gerry]

The event wouldn't be sponsored AFAIK.

 

I think you're wise to at least speak to the rights holders of the game, even just out of courtesy. None of us here are lawyers. If you pitch it to them as a charity event, they will probably be quite favourable towards you.

 

That's what I was thinking. Since I don't have some Terms & Conditions and/or EULA for a game handy, I was going on the assumption that it would be similar to music/movie copyright - i.e. illegal in a public environment.

[jamesb]

How is it any different?

 

I should've clarified I guess. Someone saying they're going to get a few friends round and do a sponsored 48-hour Halo mass tournament isn't someone I'd've thought would be infringing any copyrights.

 

On the other hand if they're doing it in public, that's a different matter. Blame a bad night's sleep, my brain's not kicked into gear yet.

[apeo]

Might want to consider getting any electrical equipment that comes into school PAT tested.

[powdarrmonkey]

I was going on the assumption that it would be similar to music/movie copyright - i.e. illegal in a public environment.

 

It would be wise to assume so - especially if you're going to be in public. But, as it's a charity event and you're behaving honourably, they may well be prepared to grant you permission to use it - especially if you will be publicising their support of your event.

[Gerry]

Thanks guys, you've confirmed my thoughts. I think they'll be taking donations, so have advised the teacher to get permission (in writing) from the publisher(s).

[Reaper]

When I was at school they ran a tournament for Street Fighter II and I can't for a minute think that they checked with the publishers.

 

Do they have to do so with big Lan game meets?