Why is it that companies cannot copyright game mechanics, but can patent them?

Question

For example, the dialogue wheel from Bioware, or the Nemesis system by WB.

In: 71

Answer 1

Game mechanics are considered functional elements of a game, not creative works. Copyright laws are designed to protect creative works, such as writing, music, and art. Because game mechanics are functional, they don’t fall under the same protection as creative works do. But, a patent can be granted for an invention which is new, useful, and non-obvious. Game mechanics can be seen as an invention and therefore can be patented.