Ultima Creator Richard Garriott Reclaims Series Rights from EA

The digital realm of computer role-playing games is abuzz with news that Richard Garriott, the visionary creator behind the iconic Ultima series, is reportedly set to reclaim the franchise's rights from Electronic Arts. This significant development, potentially unfolding as soon as next year, marks a pivotal moment for one of PC gaming's most influential sagas.

For over three decades, the Ultima intellectual property has been held by EA, a period that began in 1992 when Garriott sold his studio, Origin Systems, to the publishing giant. While this era saw the birth of groundbreaking titles like Ultima Online, the mainline CRPG series, which laid much of the foundation for modern role-playing games, has largely remained dormant. Garriott himself has expressed frustration over the years, noting his repeated attempts to collaborate with EA on new Ultima projects, only to see discussions fizzle out. According to reports, he has stated, "Every decade or so, I tried to work with EA on a revival of Ultima. They always seemed interested enough to start talking, then abandoned talks just as quickly."

A New Dawn for The Avatar

The possibility of Garriott regaining control stems from a provision in US copyright law that allows creators to reclaim their works after a certain period. This potential shift is particularly exciting for the legions of fans who grew up exploring the rich, dynamic worlds of Britannia. Ultima's impact on gaming is undeniable, influencing everything from immersive sims like Ultima Underworld to modern RPGs such as Divinity: Original Sin and Baldur's Gate 3. The idea of new Ultima adventures crafted with Garriott's direct involvement, free from the perceived stagnation under EA, has ignited considerable hope within the community.

What's Next for Ultima?

While specific details regarding future Ultima projects remain under wraps, the expectation is that Garriott will aim to bring a new game to life. Reports suggest a potential release window of 2026 for a new Ultima title, though this is not yet officially confirmed. Fans are eagerly awaiting further announcements, hopeful that this marks the true beginning of Ultima's grand return.