Is it legal to develop a game usung some version of D&D, something similar to Baldurs Gate?

Posted by Max on Game Development See other posts from Game Development or by Max
Published on 2011-11-14T03:38:45Z Indexed on 2011/11/14 10:13 UTC
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licensing

For a while now I've been thinking about trying my hand at creating a game similar in spirit and execution to Baldurs Gate, Icewind Dale and offshoots. I'd rather not face the full bulk of work in implementing my own RPG system - I'd like to use D&D rules.

Now, reading about the subject it seems there is something called "The License" which allows a company to brand a game as D&D. This license seems to be exclusive, and let's just say I don't have the money to buy it :p.

Is it still legal for me to implement and release such a game? Commercially or open-source? I'm not sure exactly which edition would fit the best, but since Baldurs Gate is based of 2nd edition, could I go ahead an implement that?

in short: what are the issues concerning licensing and publishing when it comes to D&D?

Also: Didn't see any similar question...

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