Naughty Dog’s parent company Sony Interactive Entertainment has officially filed an opposition to a trademark application for Naughty Cat. (21 words) The objection – filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) – states the proposed name is too similar to Naughty Dog’s established one and can mislead consumers.
The Hong Kong-based firm, Naughty Cat Co., Limited, was behind the application for Naughty Cat. This studio has put out two gambling apps in the App Store where we can win real money. While they are not as story-driven as Naughty Dog’s Uncharted or The Last Of Us, these games are similar enough that Sony is not happy.
The core of Sony’s argument is ‘Naughty Dog’ vs. ‘Naughty Cat’
As per the legal filing by Sony, the issue lies in the overall impression of the two trademarks. The first part of both marks is “Naught”, and the second parts “Dog” and “Cat” share such resemblance that they refer to domestic pets. Sony claims that the similar appearance may mislead consumers to believe that there is some sort of affiliation with Naughty Cat to Sony or Naughty Dog.
Sony has said that Naughty is the dominant element which is shared by both the parties and that both “Dog” and “Cat” refer to different animals who are house pets as well, hence it increases scope of confusion. They think this may create a false impression of a connection or a licensing agreement between them.
Potential Harm to Sony and Consumers
If the Naughty Cat trademark is allowed, the public is likely to be fooled and harm is likely to be done to Sony’s reputation.
The opposition contends that any such confusion is likely to make buyers believe that Naughty Cat goods are produced or sanctioned by Sony Interactive Entertainment or Naughty Dog.
Sony stated that Naughty Dog said its first commercial use was on 25 December 2023. Meanwhile, Naughty Dog has been a familiar name in the gaming industry for decades. As a result, Sony suggests these factors give them an essential leg-up in terms of reputation.
What Happens Next in the Trademark Dispute
The USPTO has set a legal schedule to address the matter. Naughty Cat Co. Limited gets time till July 12 to formally respond to Sony claims. If they do not respond the application could get dismissed, which means Sony would win easily. But if a rebuttal is filed, we could be looking at a trial, possibly in the year 2026. While the lawsuit is serious, it seems unlikely that the developers at Naughty Dog are directly involved.
Under Neil Druckmann, the studio is working on two new projects: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and a title still under wraps.
We’ll just have to wait and see if the mystery project is cat related or not. But for the time being, the legal possibility of Naughty Cat becoming a brand, is on hold.