How does one copyright a new card game?

Question

I've got an idea for a card game, but I have no idea where to begin. I've read that one cannot pitch a new game directly to companies like Mattell, Hasbro, etc. It has to go through a middle man.

Seems awfully hard to get an idea off the ground.

Answer 1

You can do this at the US Copyright Office – see the last 2 links in the source box. The application is fairly simple & the cost is $45 per application.

Despite what others state, a "poor man's" copyright is NOT the same as registering it. Here's what the US Copyright Office has to say:

"The practice of sending a copy of your own work to yourself is sometimes called a 'poor man’s copyright.' There is no provision in the copyright law regarding any such type of protection, and it is not a substitute for registration."

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!