Specific designs from various artists Shawn Rome, Justin Wright and Tommy Ray Cornett include a portrait of a child on James’ left forearm and a crown of butterflies on Kobe’s right bicep. These tattoo artists maintain that they had signed a copyright agreement with the players, which would certainly add a wrinkle into this court case.

On one hand, the complaint stems from original tattoo designs created by the tattoo artists which Solid Oak firmly believes should “easily satisfy” a standard for originality. On the other hand, one could argue that once applied to a person’s skin, the tattoo could be considered part of a person’s physical appearance. At that point, once a person’s appearance is licensed for a game, the tattoos would then be included. However, the added wrinkle to this issue comes in from the potential signed agreements the players have reportedly made with the tattoo artists prior.

Believe it or not, this isn’t the first time something like this has happened in the gaming industry. Back in 2012, THQ was sued by tattoo artist Chris Escobedo, over some of his ink appearing on Carlos Condit in UFC Undisputed 3. The case went to court with Escobedo asking for $4.1 million from the publisher, though he eventually only received $22,500 from the judge.

How do you feel about this issue? Should tattoos be considered part of a person’s appearance or does Solid Oak have a legitimate case here? Let us know your thoughts below in the comments.

Source: Hollywood Reporter