Use real companies in game?

[Robbietaylor]

I am in the process of making a game that would take place in NYC. I plan to release the game in the app store eventually.
I assume it would be illegal if I used real company logos (like Starbucks) and reproduced the logo in my game?

 

[Orange Furball]

Yes. To use Starbucks you'll have to make like "Starcoffee" and change the logo. To use McDonalds you'll have to do "McBurgerShop" or something. I would recommend consulting a lawyer for further details.

 

[thewitt]

Even Starcoffee and McBurgerShop will get you sued if you are not careful. Playing off a well known trademark and making money from it is also a violation of trade dress.

 

[roxxette]

Take a look how rockstar games handle these more specific the GTA franchise.