Activision's 'Guitar Hero' violates patent: Gibson reports that Gibson Guitar has sued Activision for patent infringement over the Guitar Hero games, in spite of having been a partner in the series since the start. Here's a bit summing up both sides:

A copy of Gibson's patent included in the court filing showed a method for simulating a live performance using a musical instrument, a 3D headset with stereo speakers, and a prerecorded concert.

"Based on our preliminary analysis, the Guitar Hero software (including any expansion packs) and the guitar controller provided by Activision being used as a musical instrument (packaged with the software or sold standalone) are covered by the...patent," Gibson's law firm said in its January 7 letter. "Gibson requests that Activision obtain a license under Gibson's...patent or halt sales of any version of the Guitar Hero game software."

Activision said its games did not infringe Gibson's patent, and that by waiting three years to raise its claim, the guitar maker had granted an implied license for any technology.