The New York Times is making moves to take down a geography-based game called Worldle<\/a><\/em>, according to a legal filing reviewed by the BBC<\/a>. The Times argues that the game’s name is too similar to Wordle<\/em>, and causes confusion among users.<\/p>
The Times contended that Worldle<\/em> is “nearly identical in appearance, sound, meaning, and imparts the same commercial impression” as Wordle<\/em>. The Times acquired Wordle<\/a> in 2022 after its surge in popularity during the pandemic. This sparked the creation of numerous other Wordle<\/em> spin-offs. The Times filed for a Wordle<\/em> trademark immediately after the purchase and has been sending takedown requests for similar games since March 2022.<\/p>
Although millions visit the Times’ website daily to play Wordle<\/em>, the concern seems to be that some may opt for Worldle<\/em> instead, confusing the geography puzzle—where players locate a Google Street View spot on a map—with the favorite word game. Yet, a Google search for “Worldle” still shows results for Wordle<\/em>, questioning the basis of this concern.<\/p>
The Times appears increasingly aggressive in defending its Wordle<\/em> brand as it aims to expand its games platform<\/a>. In March, 404 Media reported<\/a> The Times targeting hundreds of Wordle<\/em> clones, sending DMCA notices<\/a>.<\/p>
Developers like Chase Wackerfuss, creator of Reactle<\/em>, have chosen to deactivate their games to avoid legal battles with the Times. Likewise, access to previously archived Wordle<\/em> puzzles was curtailed in 2022 following similar actions by the Times.<\/p>
Conversely, Worldle<\/em>‘s creator, Kory McDonald, is not retreating. Attracting about 100,000 monthly players, McDonald expressed disappointment with the Times’ stance, stating most revenue goes to Google due to the use of Street View images. He intends to defend his game.<\/p>
McDonald told the BBC, “There’s a whole industry of [dot]LE games…Wordle<\/em> is about words, Worldle<\/em> is about the world.” He remains unfazed and suggested he might simply change the name if necessary. “Worst-case scenario, we’ll change the name, but I think we’ll be OK,” McDonald shared.<\/p>
Whether the Times will have a solid case to proceed with the takedown remains unclear. The media giant might target other “-le” games next, but the outcome of this legal bout with McDonald’s Worldle<\/em> could set a significant precedent.<\/p>