The Saga between Stoic Studios and King.com

By Mike de Leon Posted on January 24, 2014

The dictionary defines the word Saga as a prose narrative recorded in Iceland in the 12th and 13th centuries of historic or legendary figures and events of the heroic age of Norway and Iceland.

King.com, the company that developed the mobile game sensation Candy Crush Saga. was cited in an article by Gamasutra with sending an opposition notice to Stoic Studios. Stoic Studios developers of the recently released PC title The Banner Saga was sent an opposition notice due to the use of “Saga”.

King stated that they were just trying to protect their IP by sending the opposition notice. It stated on King’s opposition that “Applicant’s alleged goods are closely related to Opposer’s goods/services marketed and sold by Opposer in connection with Opposer’s SAGA Marks. Applicant’s goods overlap with Opposer’s Business.” The whole Notice of Opposition by King can be read here Opposition Notice.

In response to the growing public awareness of the opposition King stated:

“King has not and is not trying to stop Banner Saga from using its name. We do not have any concerns that Banner Saga is trying build on our brand or our content. However, like any prudent company, we need to take all appropriate steps to protect our IP, both now and in the future.

Stoic Studio responded to the comments by King.com:

“Two years ago, the three of us at Stoic set out to make an epic viking game: The Banner Saga. We did, and people loved it, so we’re making another one. We won’t make a viking saga without the word Saga, and we don’t appreciate anyone telling us we can’t. King.com claims they’re not attempting to prevent us from using The Banner Saga, and yet their legal opposition to our trademark filing remains. We’re humbled by the outpouring of support and honored to have others stand with us for the right to their own Saga. We just want to make great games.”

Read our full review of The Banner Saga here. I also recommend reading this article on Gamasutra regarding game trademarks.