Video Game Developer

Read Before Signing: Why Developers Should Negotiate Portfolio Rights Up Front

By / May 19, 2026

When a developer joins a studio, whether as a full-time employee or an independent contractor, a nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement (NDA) is often part of the onboarding paperwork. NDAs are typical as studios want to protect unreleased games, proprietary technology, and internal processes. But developers who sign an NDA without reading carefully may find themselves …

Read Before Signing: Why Developers Should Negotiate Portfolio Rights Up Front Read More »

Who Owns What? Understanding Intellectual Property Rights in Game Publishing Deals

By / March 20, 2025

In a game publishing agreement, the ownership and licensing of intellectual property (IP) are among the most critical terms. Understanding how rights are allocated between developers and publishers can prevent disputes and ensure long-term business success. Typically, developers retain ownership of the core game and its underlying assets. This includes the game code, which forms …

Who Owns What? Understanding Intellectual Property Rights in Game Publishing Deals Read More »