WotC OGL Explained
The Wizards of the Coast Open Game License (OGL) is a legal tool that allows third-party developers to create content for certain Wizards of the Coast products, such as Dungeons & Dragons. The OGL was first introduced in 2000, and has undergone several revisions since then. The latest revision, OGL 1.1, was released in 2021.
OGL 1.1 is intended to clarify and update the terms of the OGL, and to make it easier for developers to create and distribute content using the OGL. One of the key changes in OGL 1.1 is the addition of a new section called the "System Reference Document" (SRD). The SRD is a list of game mechanics and other material that developers are allowed to use under the OGL. This includes things like rules for character creation, spells, and magic items. The SRD is designed to give developers a clear understanding of what they can and cannot use when creating content under the OGL.
OGL 1.1 also includes a number of other changes and clarifications, such as updated trademark and copyright notices, and changes to the way that developers can use logos and other trademarks.
One of the main groups that will be affected by OGL 1.1 are homebrew creators. Homebrew refers to content that is created by fans or independent developers for use with certain games or systems. Under OGL 1.1, homebrew creators will be able to use the material in the SRD to create their own content, as long as they follow the terms of the OGL. This means that they will be able to create their own adventures, character classes, spells, and other material, as long as they give credit to Wizards of the Coast and follow the other terms of the OGL.
Overall, OGL 1.1 is intended to make it easier for developers to create and distribute content for Wizards of the Coast products, while still protecting the company's intellectual property. By clarifying the terms of the OGL and providing a clear list of material that can be used, OGL 1.1 should make it easier for homebrew creators to create and share their own content, and help to foster a thriving community of developers and fans.
OGL 1.1 is intended to clarify and update the terms of the OGL, and to make it easier for developers to create and distribute content using the OGL. One of the key changes in OGL 1.1 is the addition of a new section called the "System Reference Document" (SRD). The SRD is a list of game mechanics and other material that developers are allowed to use under the OGL. This includes things like rules for character creation, spells, and magic items. The SRD is designed to give developers a clear understanding of what they can and cannot use when creating content under the OGL.
OGL 1.1 also includes a number of other changes and clarifications, such as updated trademark and copyright notices, and changes to the way that developers can use logos and other trademarks.
One of the main groups that will be affected by OGL 1.1 are homebrew creators. Homebrew refers to content that is created by fans or independent developers for use with certain games or systems. Under OGL 1.1, homebrew creators will be able to use the material in the SRD to create their own content, as long as they follow the terms of the OGL. This means that they will be able to create their own adventures, character classes, spells, and other material, as long as they give credit to Wizards of the Coast and follow the other terms of the OGL.
Overall, OGL 1.1 is intended to make it easier for developers to create and distribute content for Wizards of the Coast products, while still protecting the company's intellectual property. By clarifying the terms of the OGL and providing a clear list of material that can be used, OGL 1.1 should make it easier for homebrew creators to create and share their own content, and help to foster a thriving community of developers and fans.