Notch challenges Bethesda to Quake 3 duel over 'Scrolls' legal dispute

There's nothing particularly funny about Markus %26ldquo;Notch%26rdquo; Persson's battle with Bethesda's (read: ZeniMax's) lawyers over the alleged misuse of the name 'Scrolls' for Mojang Studios' next game, however there is something refreshingly awesome about his proposed solution. Hoping to end the dispute as quickly and honorably as possible, the Minecraft creator today challenged Bethesda to a Quake 3 duel, the outcome of which will determine if the trademark case goes to court or if it dies in the arena. And yes, he's completely serious.

%26ldquo;Remember that scene in Game of Thrones where Tyrion chose a trial by battle in the Eyrie? Well, let%26rsquo;s do that instead! I challenge Bethesda to a game of Quake 3. Three of our best warriors against three of your best warriors. We select one level, you select the other, we randomize the order. 20 minute matches, highest total frag count per team across both levels wins,%26rdquo; wrote Persson on hisblog, explaining, %26ldquo;If we win, you drop the lawsuit. If you win, we will change the name of Scrolls to something you%26rsquo;re fine with.%26rdquo;

Thelawsuitstems from ZeniMax's concern that using the word 'Scrolls' in the title for Mojang's upcoming card-based battle game will confuse fans of Bethesda's Elder Scrolls series. Naturally, there's next to zero chance Persson's proposal will fly, however it does show his willingness to be reasonable and not have this issue become larger than it needs to be. Further demonstrating his desire to make peace, Perssons promises: %26ldquo;Regardless of the outcome, we could still have a small text somewhere saying our game is not related to your game series in any way, if you wish.%26rdquo;

%26ldquo;I am serious, by the way,%26rdquo; he added.

We're sure he is; and in the extremely narrow chance this happens, you can bet we'll be cheering on Team Notch from the virtual sidelines

Aug 17, 2011