patent for game mechanics

What I don't understand is why? You want to protect the valuable aspects so whether it is UX (trade dress), characters/storyline (copyright) or gaming engine (trade secrets on server-side) why are the mechanics so important that it is worthwhile spending up to 6 figures on getting patents around the world. Not only that, you have to set aside a legal fund to chase infringers or pay for patent insurance. So, have you done the cost-benefits? Or is an ex-employee more likely to split and set up a competing game rather than a random chinese clone emerging? I suggest you sit down and do a basic risk-analysis = probability x potential loss. One you rank them, you can figure out how to mitigate, manage or throw money at each.