The game takes place on an isometric map where commercialisation activities are physically represented by buildings and territories with different economic strengths that add depth to the moment-to-moment gameplay.
IPSim
IPSim is an online competitive multiplayer real-time strategy game for Mac and PC, where players manage a company that trades in Intellectual Property. The objective of the game is to win by amassing the most cash and most valuable technologies through co-operation and competition with other players.
Teaching IP Management
Management and commercialisation of Intellectual Property are not easily taught using traditional means. These concepts are not particularly difficult to understand, the problem is in presenting them in a way that engages learners, and stimulates strategic thinking.
IPSim is a very practical and interactive program. The workshop was great fun and provided a very good insight into the management of IP strategies and technology commercialisation…. a highly recommended tool for academics and industrialists alike…
Dr Sinéad B. Bleiel, Company Founder & Director, AnaBio![]()
IPSim ticks all the boxes for our students. It’s extremely engaging for them too
Andrew Osborn, Head of Engineering, Central Bedfordshire UTC![]()
IPSim is both great fun and a great way to train and to test-out one’s ability to use all the elements of a sound IP strategy for growth. The simulation replicates our work in one of the most important aspects of successful innovation and commercialisation.
Nick Gough, Head of Business and Commercial, Cranfield University![]()
Playing IPSim was a great experience as I managed to put into practice some business related IP concepts. The tool is suitable for a broad range of players, helping beginners learn about IP concepts and is equally exciting for people with deep IP knowledge. It boosted my competitive spirit and was absolute fun. I would love to play it again.
Elena Andonova, Consultant, ISIS Innovation Limited![]()
A well organised workshop and effective tool – would certainly recommend
Muhammad Azam Roomi, Senior Lecturer, Cranfield University School of Management![]()
IPSim is an enjoyable experience and also interesting to see interactions between players. It gets you thinking about how IP works, the differences on some of the terms, where to develop IP and how others react.
Gary Jesson, MD, EFM![]()
Good simulation to help those that would like to learn about the commercialisation of IP. The time limit placed on each player is a good thing, not just for time keeping, but it exerts some stress and encourages players to act fast like in the real world.
Steve Khoo, CEO, Tidal Harness Ltd![]()
IPSim: The Solution
Our solution with IPSim, was to build a multiplayer role-playing game that mirrors the competitive nature of real business, and the strategic commercialisation of Intellectual Property. You learn the fundamentals of Intellectual Property management by trading and negotiating with peers, and experimenting with different variants of Intellectual Property.
You assume control as CEO or CFO of a knowledge-based company that develops technologies and commercialises IP in return for IP royalty incomes. The objective of the game is to win by amassing the most cash and most valuable technologies through co-operation and competition with human or AI controlled company’s – whilst minimising the risk of being sued for infringement and maintaining a competitive IP advantage over other companies – ultimately being able to create an exit at the end of the sim. A successful and strategic company amasses securely protected IP tech that’s commercialised in all territories as well as IP that’s used for blocking or trading purposes.