Guitar maker stands firm on patent infrigement

Gibson Guitar Corp. today released a statement in defense of its actions against Activision.   While viewed by the majority of the gaming press as a baseless claim, Gibson insists that their patent of a virtual reality concert performance headset attached to a real guitar was clearly infringed upon by Activision's video game console simulated peformance, using guitar shaped video game controllers.

Here is the release:

Gibson Guitar Corp., the world's premier musical instrument manufacturer and leader in music technology, has been involved in on-going conversations with Activision Publishing, Inc., a U.S. video game publisher, regarding its infringement of a Gibson patent. Gibson has rights to request a license of Activision, which is currently using its patent as it relates to the guitar controllers. In addition, the company has encouraged Activision to enter into discussions in an effort to secure a conclusion to the matter. Instead, Activision chose to release a public statement to media and to file a lawsuit. Gibson Guitar stands behind its claim in this matter. Gibson intends to vigorously defend its rights and to pursue any rights it may have against Activision and any other persons. There will be no further comment on this issue at this time.