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2 clusters · 5 sources · 4 days · First seen · Last updated

Richard Garriott Ultima copyright reclamation

Overview

Video game designer Richard Garriott has initiated legal procedures to reclaim the copyright for the ‘Ultima’ series from Electronic Arts (EA). Utilizing Section 203 of the U.S. Copyright Act, often called the ‘35-year rule,’ Garriott aims to terminate the copyright transfer that occurred when EA acquired Origin Systems in 1992.

Garriott officially notified EA of his intent to reclaim the rights in April. EA has reportedly acknowledged the process, stating, “Yes, we know that is the law and we will act accordingly.” While the official transfer of control is expected to occur in 2027, Garriott is currently engaged in discussions with EA to explore potential collaborative projects.

Regaining control of the franchise could allow for the republication of classic titles or the development of new sequels. However, the move targets copyrights specifically and does not include trademark rights; negotiations regarding the exact scope of the reclaimed rights are ongoing.

Entities

Richard Garriott · Electronic Arts · Ultima · Origin Systems

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Richard Garriott to reclaim Ultima franchise rights from EA

    Richard Garriott will officially regain the rights to the Ultima RPG franchise in 2027, utilizing US copyright laws that allow creators to reclaim intellectual property after 35 years.

  2. [TECHNOLOGY] 3 sources
    Richard Garriott moves to reclaim Ultima copyright from EA

    Richard Garriott is moving to reclaim the 'Ultima' video game copyright from Electronic Arts using the U.S. Copyright Act's 35-year rule, with official control expected by 2027.

Sources

beyondpixels.de · eurogamer.es · invenglobal.com · mmo.it · thegeek.games