About .games domain
.games is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Donuts (Foggy Beach, LLC). It was delegated by ICANN and entered the root zone in June 2016. The TLD was introduced as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program to increase competition and consumer choice in the domain namespace. It is managed under a shared resources business model designed for operational stability.
Who can register .games domain
Registration for .games domains is open to everyone with no eligibility restrictions. Donuts, the registry operator, has stated a commitment to an inclusive registration policy to maximize Internet participation. There are no geographic, organizational, or trademark-based requirements to register a .games domain name. It is available to individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide.
How to register .games domain
- Search for your desired .games domain name on a registrar's website to check its availability and see if it is offered as a standard or premium name.
- Compare prices, registration terms, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting from different accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, which typically requires providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting a registration period, often one to ten years.
- After purchase, verify your contact email to activate the domain and configure its DNS settings through your registrar's control panel to point it to your website or service.
Typical uses of .games domain
The .games extension is commonly used by a wide range of entities connected to gaming and recreation. This includes individual gamers, game developers, esports organizations, gaming communities, and retailers selling games or equipment. It provides a relevant and memorable namespace for websites focused on video games, board games, mobile games, and competitive gaming. Users choose .games to create a clear, topical online identity that instantly communicates their content's focus within the expansive gaming industry.
Tips for registering .games domain
- Domains can typically be registered for periods from one to ten years, with renewal required to maintain ownership.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally available for .games domains through most registrars, though it may be an optional add-on service.
- The registry operates standard sunrise and trademark claims periods to help protect intellectual property rights.
- Premium .games domains with desirable keywords may be available at higher, non-standard pricing set by the registry.
Frequently asked questions about .games domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .games domain?
As of today, .games domains start from $7.45/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $79.41/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .games domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .games domain registration, with the cheapest option at $7.45/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .games domain?
The registry for .games domains is Identity Digital, administered by Dog Beach, LLC.
Who can register a .games domain?
There are no restrictions on who can register a .games domain; it is an open gTLD. This means any individual, company, or organization from anywhere in the world can register one without providing specific documentation or proving a connection to the gaming sector. The registry's policy is designed to encourage broad participation and innovation within this namespace.
Can I transfer a .games domain between registrars?
Transferring a .games domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN transfer policy. You must initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar, ensure the domain is unlocked, and obtain the correct authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar. Transfers are typically completed within five to seven days, provided the domain is not within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer.
Are there any special protections for trademark owners?
Yes, the .games registry participated in the Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) and offers trademark protection mechanisms. These include a Sunrise Period, which allowed trademark holders early registration access, and a ongoing Trademark Claims service, which notifies both registrants and rights holders of potential conflicts during domain registration.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .games domains?
.games domains are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) for resolving bad-faith trademark infringement disputes. Additionally, the registry has committed to the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system, which provides a faster, lower-cost alternative for clear-cut cases of trademark abuse.
Can I register a .games domain for a non-gaming purpose?
While the extension is tailored for gaming-related content, there are no registry-enforced content restrictions. You can technically use a .games domain for any lawful purpose. However, using it for unrelated content may confuse visitors who associate the .games TLD with gaming, so it is most effective for relevant projects.
