1. Introduction
This policy outlines the acceptable use of video content related to PGL eSports tournaments, including live streams, match recordings, highlights, and other related media ("PGL Content"). It aims to balance the interests of PGL, content creators, sponsors, and the eSports community.
2. Acceptable Use of PGL Content
PGL acknowledges the creative and transformative ways in which our content can be used under Fair Use. The following are examples of content that are likely to be considered fair use:
- Frag Movies and Machinimas: Creators are encouraged to use in-game content and machinimas to highlight and elevate moments from PGL matches. This includes creative reinterpretations of in-game events.
- Analysis Content: In-depth analysis and breakdowns of PGL matches, strategies, and team performances are welcomed. This includes using PGL content to explain why certain events unfolded in a particular way during a match.
- Educational Content and Guides: If a professional player or team executed a noteworthy strategy or play, creators can use PGL content to educate the community about these techniques and their impact on the game.
- Meme Compilations: Humorous edits and meme compilations using PGL content are permissible. These should be done tastefully and should not misrepresent PGL, its participants, or sponsors.
In all cases, the use of PGL Content must be transformative, adding significant value through commentary, editing, or creative input. Simply reusing content without substantial addition is not permitted.
3. Prohibitions and Limitations
- Sponsors: The use of any promotional material within videos containing PGL Content is strictly prohibited. This includes visual and verbal mentions, product placements, logos, banners, and any form of direct or indirect promotion. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity of the content. Violations of this policy will result in immediate action, including the potential for copyright strikes and removal of the content, unless explicit authorization has been obtained from PGL Esports SRL.
- Non-Transformative Content: Simply re-uploading, mirroring, or minimally altering PGL Content without adding substantial creative input is not allowed. This includes making basic cuts or compilations without significant additional commentary, educational insights, or creative contributions.
- Re-streams: Re-streaming of live PGL events is strictly prohibited unless expressly authorized by PGL.
- Copyright Infringement: All uses of PGL Content must comply with YouTube’s Copyright Policy, particularly under the principles of Fair Use, where applicable.
- Usage of in-game content in Valve's games: According to Valve's Video Policy, you can use in-game content. However, Valve states, "Of course, this policy applies only to Valve content. If you include someone else's content in your video, such as music, you must get permission from the owner." Hence, usage of any material produced by PGL Esports SRL or related parties, including but not limited to casters' voices and observer camerawork, should comply with the PGL Esports Copyright Policy.
If you are unsure whether your content complies with our policy or if you would like to seek pre-approval for your video, please send an email to youtube@pglesports.com detailing your request. We encourage content creators to use this channel to avoid potential policy violations and to ensure a smooth and compliant content creation process.
4. Monetization
Content creators are permitted to monetize videos that adhere to these guidelines through YouTube’s monetization mechanisms. However, PGL reserves the right to claim revenue or take down content that violates this policy.
5. Policy Amendments
PGL reserves the right to modify this policy at any time. Updates and changes to this policy will be posted on the designated PGL policy page (https://press.pglesports.com/287269-pgl-esports-copyright-policy). It is the responsibility of content creators and users to regularly review this page for any updates to the policy. Changes will take effect immediately upon their posting on the page.
6. Reporting and Enforcement
- Reporting Violations: If you believe a video violates this policy, please report it to youtube@pglesports.com
- Enforcement Actions: PGL will review reported violations and may take actions including, but not limited to, requesting the removal of the content, issuing copyright strikes, or legal action where necessary.
7. Contact and Further Information
For additional information, clarifications, or specific inquiries, please contact us at youtube@pglesports.com.