Take-Two Reportedly Files Trademark Claim Against It Takes Two

Take-Two Interactive, the parent company for Rockstar Games and 2K, has reportedly filed a trademark claim against Hazelight and Electronic Arts' co-op 3D action-adventure platformer It Takes Two.

According to a report by Eurogamer, U.S. Patent Office records show that Hazelight subsequently abandoned ownership of the name shortly after Take-Two's claim was filed.

In a statement to Eurogamer, a Hazelight spokesperson said the studio "cannot comment on ongoing disputes," but that the team is "hopeful it will be resolved."

Other U.S. Patent records reportedly show that Take-Two has also filed trademark claims for several other names that include terms such as "rockstar," "social club," "mafia," and "civilization."

Business attorney Richard Hoeg mentioned on Twitter that Take-Two has filed extension requests for at least 25 challenges in the last three months.

According to business analyst Mike Futter on Twitter, although Hazelight has lost ownership of the game's name and can't protect it, it doesn't necessarily mean that the studio will have to change it either.

"The trademark conflict means that Hazelight can’t protect the name, not that they will be forced to change it," Futter said on Twitter. "They could change it if they want to protect the name, but honestly, it’s probably not worth it to them to do that."

As it stands, Hazelight has yet to comment on whether or not the situation would affect their ability to sell or market It Takes Two, any plans to rename the game, as well as any ideas for a potential sequel.

It Takes Two was initially released for PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass and PC (via Origin and Steam) on March 26, 2021, and was added to Xbox Game Pass last month. The title has reportedly sold over 3 million copies and has been nominated for several categories at this year’s Game Awards, including Game of the Year.