Double Fine Owns IP and Publishing Rights for All of Its Games Following Xbox Split, Psychonauts Studio Confirms

Double Fine Productions, the creator of Psychonauts and Brutal Legend, has confirmed it has regained ownership of the intellectual property and publishing rights for all its games released under Microsoft following its split from Xbox. Company CEO Tim Schafer explained this during a conversation with Kinda Funny Games, addressing fans' concerns about supporting the studio as it enters a new chapter.

Schafer clarified that any purchases of their previous releases would directly fund the studio's continued creativity. While some games may still be listed under Microsoft's ownership temporarily, Schafer assured that this will change over time. He added that the studio aims to use the revenue generated from game sales to extend its financial stability, known as a "runway."

The restructuring plan also ensured that Double Fine and Compulsion Games would retain their IP, catalog, and resources for future projects. To capitalize on this, Schafer introduced Amnesia Fortnight 2026, an Indie Reboot Kickstarter campaign, which will culminate in a game jam from August 31 to September. Backers can influence the development process by choosing ideas that move to prototyping and could eventually become real, smaller games.

Schafer also hinted at other undisclosed projects in the works. The studio's return to independence is evident with the regained control of games like Kiln, and Schafer promised updates on its development, including new maps, modes, and a potentially lower price. Despite a 25% team reduction following layoffs, Double Fine's future projects seem promising.

For more information on Double Fine's past works, IGN provides reviews for Keeper (9/10) and Psychonauts 2 (8/10).