Double Fine Productions, the studio behind acclaimed titles such as Psychonauts and Brutal Legend, has officially confirmed that it has regained the intellectual property and publishing rights for all of its games previously released under Microsoft. This development follows the studio's departure from Xbox.
In a conversation with Kinda Funny Games, CEO Tim Schafer clarified the studio's ownership status. He stated that the transfer of IP rights back to Double Fine has been completed, and with it, the publishing rights to their entire catalog. While some official records may still indicate Microsoft's ownership for a transitional period, Schafer emphasized that these will be updated in time. He stressed the importance of fan support through game purchases, noting that revenue generated from these sales directly contributes to extending the studio's operational runway.
This confirmation comes after Xbox CEO Asha Sharma had previously assured that Double Fine, along with Compulsion Games, would retain their IP and game catalogs. This assurance was part of a broader restructuring plan within Microsoft's gaming division that also involved significant layoffs. While the split provided Double Fine with an avenue amidst Microsoft's internal challenges, its long-term independent future remained a subject of discussion.
To further support its ongoing development, Double Fine has launched an Amnesia Fortnight 2026 Indie Reboot Kickstarter campaign. This initiative will feature a game jam commencing August 31 and running through most of September. Backers will have the opportunity to influence which game ideas progress to the prototyping stage, with one eventually being developed into a smaller, full game. The entire process will be documented by 2 Player Productions for a planned documentary.
Schafer also indicated that Double Fine is working on other unannounced projects. The studio's renewed control over its storied titles, including Keeper, Psychonauts 2, and Kiln, is expected to provide a more stable foundation for future endeavors.
Regarding Kiln, the 2026 multiplayer game focused on pottery, Schafer mentioned that updates are actively being developed. These updates are expected to include new maps and modes, and the studio also plans to reduce the game's price. Despite the studio's transition, which was reportedly followed by layoffs affecting 25% of its staff, the exact nature of its next major game remains undisclosed.