When we set out to create ScareBnB, our goal was to craft a fun and spooky board game experience where players could run or escape from haunted bed and breakfasts. We loved the clever play on words, and the community response to our concept was overwhelmingly positive. But, as with many creative endeavors, there were unexpected challenges along the way.
One of the biggest surprises came when we received a notice from Airbnb. They claimed that the name ScareBnB was infringing on their trademark. At first, it was a little shocking. We hadn’t thought that our small indie board game would be seen as a threat to a massive corporation. After all, our game takes place in haunted houses with ghosts and monsters—not exactly what you’d expect from a travel platform!
However, Airbnb’s claim was based on the similarity of our name to their trademark. Trademark laws exist to protect companies from brand confusion, and while ScareBnB was clearly meant as a fun nod to the bed-and-breakfast concept, they argued that it could still create confusion or dilute their brand. We realized it would be a long and expensive legal battle if we fought it. After some thoughtful discussions within our team, we decided it would be best to take a different approach.
So, with some creative brainstorming, we decided to change the name to "Scare B&B".
Why Scare B&B?
We wanted to keep the spirit of the original name intact while avoiding any further trademark issues. Scare B&B felt like the perfect fit—it maintains the same haunted vacation theme and captures the spooky, thrilling vibe of our game, but it’s clearly distinct from any existing trademarks. It still hints at the concept of staying in creepy, haunted bed-and-breakfasts, where players encounter all sorts of terrifying surprises.
Though the name change wasn’t part of our original plan, it gave us an opportunity to reflect on our brand and make sure it represented what we truly wanted to convey. Scare B&B sounds scarier and more playful, which perfectly aligns with our vision of a creepy yet fun board game experience.
The Silver Lining
While the legal notice initially felt like a roadblock, we now see it as a learning experience that helped shape our game’s identity even further. It also made us realize how important it is to ensure that your game or project stands out in the marketplace, both creatively and legally.
We’re excited about the future of Scare B&B, and this little hiccup hasn’t dampened our enthusiasm at all. In fact, it’s made us even more determined to bring you a game that’s not only fun and spooky but also well-positioned to reach as many players as possible. We’ve already updating our packaging, website, and social media to reflect the new name, and we’re moving full steam ahead toward our launch.
We want to thank everyone in our community for your support throughout this process. It’s been amazing to see how many of you stood by us, and we can’t wait to share Scare B&B with you soon.
So, get ready for a hauntingly good time—because no matter what it’s called, this game is going to give you chills (in the best possible way)!
Stay spooky,
The "Scare B&B" Team
