Developers shouldn't act deluded when selling IP, says law firm

Developers looking to sell their games to publishers should strike a careful balance between practically giving IP away and acting like "a deluded showbiz mom".

That's the advice from Weightmans' solicitor Sean Crotty, in an exclusive editorial published today on GamesIndustry.biz, looking at how law firms can help developers negotiate the best deal with a publishing company.

"Donât be a charity, but don't be a deluded showbiz mom either. Take advice and speak to the experts to establish your worth," said Crotty.

"As much as you may feel that you are objective enough to value the product, a balance needs to be drawn between giving your assets away on the cheap and over-egging the pudding," he added.

In pushing for the desired deal, Crotty also recommends that developers shouldn't be afraid to use the lawyer when negotiations become difficult in what Crotty describes as "an often lengthy and torturous process".

"It is often useful to portray your lawyer as the unreasonable member of your team who is fighting for such terms. Most lawyers don't mind being the bad guy if it gets his client the desired result," he advised.

The full interview with Sean Crotty can be read later today.