lenpelletier says:
5e has a System Reference Document (SRD) that tells you what you can and cannot reproduce, modify, etc. in your third party product. At the top of the SRD it reads:
"Permission to copy, modify and distribute the files
collectively known as the System Reference Document 5.1 ("SRD5") is granted solely through the use of the Open Gaming License, Version 1.0a."
The SRD has 400 pages of rules text you can "copy, modify and distribute. " There are some strings attached, like including a copy of the OGL in your work.
I'm not going to muddy the waters with more advice because I don't know anything, but this page includes some answers, including links to documents (like the SRD) and an FAQ:
https://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/systems-reference-document-srd
Another good idea would be to take a look at a reputable third party publisher that produces 5e content and dissect what they do. Kobold Press, Monte Cook Games, and Green Ronin are some of the biggest names. Consider looking at some of their 5e products and learn from the masters.
I would highly recommend making sure this applies to a
commercial product before "copying, modifying, or distributing" srd material in a commercial product...
I'm just about 100% positive that you are not allowed to profit off of material from the srd.
For instance, Cubicle 7 - a professional 3rd party producer, used the OGL for their "Adventures in Middle-earth" line. Commercial product. Not hardly a word that I'm aware of (aside from abilities placed in the context of new Classes and Monsters, and appropriate equipment, and little piece meal things - but nothing is copied "whole-cloth") from the srd is in it.
As you can see, it's complicated. If you're trying to sell something, you better get it right. So, talk to a legal expert.
Last edited May 9, 2020 5:05 pm