[tracker1]

I'm sorry but the default USPTO position should be to deny process/algorithm/software patents without true innovation. In this case, their own game/show was first released in 1996 in which the patent itself would be invalid from that position, even if they had completely invented the mechanics/idea with no other prior art, their own art is well longer than the term a Patent can/should protect.

[robotnikman]

It makes me wonder, what's stopping someone from flooding the patent office with thousands of AI generated process/algorithm/software patents, and declaring them free to use for anybody? That's one way I could think of to protect games from being stifled by future patents.

[jasonhong]

It costs a non-trivial amount of money to file a patent in the USA

[transcriptase]

And even more to enforce it if granted. You can have all the patents in the world but with without being able to file against infringing parties they’re just documents.

[mikestew]

If what is behind the patent is granted free to use, what’s to enforce? How would I infringe on “free to use for everybody “? I believe OP’s idea is to file the patents defensively to block others from filing stupid patents as in TFA.

[_aavaa_]

The hefty application fee