Greetings!

Ok, so if I am looking to publish a hardcover book--or a PDF--dealing with 5E, what kind of documentation do I need to include in it?

Thank you for your help!

Semper Fidelis,

SHARK

You should start here, great opportunity to build a following -->  https://support.dmsguild.com/hc/en-us/categories/202531048-DMs-Guild-General-Information

Otherwise, you can use the OGL. You cannot claim compatibility with D&D nor can you mention it in regards to your product. When using the OGL you must clearly designate what is Product Identity (what's all yours) and what is Open Content (what you created or derived from 5e SRD or other open content sources). Most designers include that up front on the credits page. All sources you used must be listed in Section 15 of the OGL. The entirety of the license is usually printed in the back of the book. I recommend putting it before the index.

A few companies have 5e compatible content without using the DMs Guild. Kobold Games is a great example of this. I also think they have a free 5e logo that you can use (just a generic logo showing use of the 5e SRD, not affiliated with WOTC).

If you want to support a clone or OSR work, you will likely need the OGL AND permission from the designer. Most seem pretty easy to get along with, so a simple email should net you any required legal disclaimers to include and permission to use.

If you want to create a WHOLE GAME derived from Open Content, you don't need permission from anyone. You will still need to designate PI, OC and include the license as outlined above.

Greetings!

Thank you for your help, my friend! Yeah, I am planning on producing books and modules under the OGL. I want to keep ownership over my intellectual property. Such books and PDF's can be "Compatible with the world's most popular roleplaying game" correct?

Semper Fidelis,

SHARK

Before using the OGL, take a look at what Kevin Crawford / Sine Nomine has been doing.

Then analyze the OGL to see what you would be gaining and losing. As with anything, there is a tradeoff and depending on your needs, you might be gaining more than losing by using the OGL...or vice versa.

Also, much depends on what your marketing plan might be. If you want to sell via DMsguild, you need to follow their rules. Otherwise, its very wild west in regards to Kickstarter, Amazon and even DriveThruRPG. Plenty of those guys are slapping 5e logos right on the cover.

If you are seeking to do OSR and 5e versions, make them two different books and take the time to kickass tailor them to each audience. Neither audience really wants a general book. They want a book that rocks for their chosen system...by an author who clearly understands the nuances of the system.

Quote from: SHARK;1129216...  "Compatible with the world's most popular roleplaying game" correct? ...

Yes. I've seen this in several 5e books.

Quote from: trechriron;1129454Yes. I've seen this in several 5e books.

Saying it in a book and it being true are not necessarily the same thing. Kobold Press has been guilty of that before and why I dont buy their stuff anymore.

Quote from: Omega;1131795Saying it in a book and it being true are not necessarily the same thing. Kobold Press has been guilty of that before and why I dont buy their stuff anymore.

What?

Show me on the doll where Kobold press touched you.