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Why Did Bethesda Trademark 'Nuka Cola'?
Update: A Bethesda representative has responded to our request for comment. "We are simply protecting an important mark that is associated with one of our most popular franchises," the representative told us via email.
Original Story:
Bethesda has recently filed three trademark applications for the term “Nuka Cola.” Fallout fans will recognize this as the popular beverage from that post-apocalyptic universe.
The three trademarks cover different aspects of the term. The first is related to online games. The second covers merchandising. The third points to a use of the trademark for software connected to mobile devices.
The owner and attorney of record information lines up with other Bethesda trademarks. This probably isn't a hoax (though those are common with regard to Fallout), but the trademarks also aren't for a game name (and thus expectations should be tempered). As a comparison, the term “Skyrim” is also trademarked for “computer game software for use with computers and video game consoles.”
We’ve reached out to Bethesda to find out more about the trademark filings. We’ll update should we receive a response.
[Source: US Patent and Trademark Office (1), (2), (3) via Joystiq]
Image courtesy Fallout Wiki.
Our Take
This probably doesn’t hint at a new Fallout game (though one is rumored to be in development). Nuka Cola merchandising wouldn’t be unexpected, as Bethesda has a thriving Fallout clothing and collectible business. It could also be a bit of a head fake for fans. In short, don’t get your hopes up quite yet about the next Fallout game.
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