"is this something you'd actually participate to as a player? Does this sound fun?" Yes, and yes! However, I really hope you have a solid grasp of the IP laws

"is this something you'd actually participate to as a player? Does this sound fun?" Yes, and yes! However, I really hope you have a solid grasp of the IP laws in different locales, and what "prior art" means in those locales. I don't and I suspect many HNers don't either. For instance, I often read on HN that the iPad isn't innovative, because it resembles the PADD communicator from Star Trek, calling that "prior art". I don't know, maybe it is. Maybe I can design a flying saucer, and I won't be able to patent it because hundreds of Sci-Fi movies provide prior art.