Double Fine is independent from Microsoft again, and CEO Tim Schafer says the studio has regained ownership of its intellectual property and publishing rights across its catalogue.
The developer behind Psychonauts, Psychonauts 2, Costume Quest, Brutal Legend, Keeper and Kiln was acquired by Microsoft in 2019. It later became independent during a major Xbox-wide restructuring.
Double Fine says game sales now support the studio
During Kinda Funny Games Daily today, Schafer addressed whether Double Fine receives revenue from games created while Microsoft owned the studio, including Psychonauts 2.
“Everything, we got back, the transfer of the IP came back to us. All, we have the publishing rights back to our games,” Schafer said.
He explained that some store listings may continue to show Microsoft as the publisher while the administrative changes are processed. However, he said purchases of Double Fine games now help support the studio, providing revenue that can extend its financial runway.
For players exploring the studio’s catalogue, Double Fine’s return to independence is also notable in the wider arcade and gaming news landscape. Its distinctive adventure and platform games remain relevant to anyone interested in unusual, creator-led projects.
Kiln update and price reduction planned
Double Fine is currently preparing updates for its latest release, Kiln. Schafer said a major update planned for the following week will add new maps and game modes.
The update is also expected to arrive alongside a price reduction for Kiln. The game was described as a particularly enjoyable release, though no new price was provided.
Amnesia Fortnight returns with Kickstarter support
Earlier in the same podcast, Schafer announced the return of Double Fine’s internal game jam, Amnesia Fortnight. This time, it will run as a live game jam with a Kickstarter campaign allowing supporters to vote on the projects the studio develops.
The stated aim is to secure support for one small Kickstarter project. That funding would give Double Fine additional stability and financial runway while the team works on other projects following its separation from Microsoft.
Double Fine’s post-Microsoft transition
Double Fine released Psychonauts 2, Keeper and Kiln while under Microsoft. The move back to independence was followed by layoffs at the studio last month.
Double Fine is not the only former Xbox studio to clarify its position after the restructuring. Compulsion Games has also said that South of Midnight, made under Xbox, is owned and self-published by the studio.
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