The creator of Ultima will regain the rights to the franchise. Currently, they are with EA
Game designer Richard Garriott announced that in 2027 he will regain control over the Ultima franchise. He will not have to pay anything for this — Electronic Arts (EA) will transfer the rights completely free of charge.
Ultima 9: Ascension
It is worth recalling that Garriott sold the rights to Ultima to EA along with his studio Origin Systems back in 1992. At that time, he received $30 million for everything.
According to the creator of Ultima, the return became possible due to the peculiarities of U.S. law. The fact is that it allows the retrieval of sold rights 35 years after the conclusion of the deal without paying any compensation — the author simply needs to contact and notify the current rights holder one year before the expiration date.
Garriott has already reached out to EA, and the company has confirmed that it will act in accordance with the law.
Currently, the game designer is discussing with EA the possibility of collaborating on projects within the Ultima universe. After reclaiming the rights, he will also be able to independently re-release older parts of the series and create sequels.