{
  "id": 6137706,
  "title": "Tim Schafer: \"No one puts Double Fine out of business except me\"",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/tim-schafer-no-one-puts-double-fine-out-of-business-except-me",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-07T13:07:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "GamesIndustry",
    "slug": "gamesindustry",
    "url": "https://www.gamesindustry.biz/tim-schafer-no-one-puts-double-fine-out-of-business-except-me"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Double Fine Productions boss Tim Schafer revealed how his studio managed to avoid closure despite significant layoffs at Xbox during an interview with Bloomberg. Schafer explained that he took it upon himself to secure the studio's intellectual property and funding to regain its independence. He recounted feeling a sense of urgency when he realized the studio was heading towards closure. While some people contemplated leaving, Schafer and his team saw it as a creative awakening. After Microsoft acquired Double Fine in 2019, the studio's direction shifted, with Asha Sharma's vision differing from the previous one, particularly after the unsuccessful performance of Keeper and Kiln. Schafer noted that they had a mutually beneficial mission initially, but as Asha's mission changed, he understood that no amount of profitability could save the studio unless a breakout success occurred. Despite the challenges, Schafer emphasized the importance of maintaining a creative approach, as it keeps the team motivated and the studio alive. He stated that they never actively try to create a game they believe will not be profitable, as their focus is on producing enjoyable and rewarding games. Schafer also highlighted Double Fine's recent events, such as the fifth Amnesia Fortnight, where small teams develop game prototypes, and the company's continued commitment to innovative game development.",
  "summary": "Double Fine Productions' boss Tim Schafer recently explained how the studio avoided closure following significant layoffs at Xbox , stating, \"no one puts Double Fine out of business except for me.\" Read more",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}