They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Well, in the world of advertising and marketing that saying probably doesn’t get you very far, as SEGA has decided to settle out of court with sports giant Nike after allegations of a copycat ad campaign.
Nike filed suit in February claiming that the TV commercials for NBA 2K2 lifted elements from Nike’s own ‘Frozen Moment’ advertisements. After a lengthy legal battle, the two parties have come to an agreement.
SEGA will pay for Nike’s legal fees and donate $50,000 in Nike’s name to the Boys & Girls Club of Portland, Oregon and Memphis, Tennessee. SEGA and its advertising agency Leagas Delaney must also issue an official statement of apology to Nike.
More details can be found at Gamespot.