Electronic Arts (EA) has filed new trademarks for the Ultima franchise, though the company has not confirmed plans for a new entry in the long-dormant role-playing series. Richard Garriott, the creator of the franchise, told Inside Games that while he has attempted to collaborate with EA on a revival every decade since the 1999 release of Ultima IX: Ascension, those discussions have consistently stalled.
Why do trademark filings often precede game revivals?
Trademark filings serve as a defensive measure for intellectual property owners to maintain control over their assets. According to legal experts, companies frequently register trademarks to prevent brand dilution or to ensure they retain rights before exploring potential remakes, remasters, or mobile adaptations. While these filings indicate that EA remains interested in the Ultima brand, Garriott notes that similar interest in the past has not resulted in a finished product.
Richard Garriott formed Origin Systems in 1983 to publish his games. EA acquired the studio in 1992 for $30 million, a sum that eventually funded Garriott’s ventures into private space travel.
How does the history of Ultima influence modern development?
The Ultima series set the industry standard for open-world exploration and morality systems in the 1980s and 1990s. Industry analysts suggest that legacy franchises are increasingly valuable as publishers look to fill release calendars with established IPs. However, the contrast between the series’ original creative vision and modern corporate development cycles remains a hurdle. Garriott reports that EA has often entered talks with him only to abandon the project shortly thereafter, highlighting the friction between independent creative control and large-scale corporate ownership.
What is the current status of the franchise?
As of late 2024, there is no official word on a new Ultima project. Garriott, who is frequently referred to by his in-game moniker “Lord British,” has directed fans to his upcoming appearance at Dragon Con in Atlanta. He indicated that he expects to provide more clarity on the future of the series during that event. Until then, the trademark filings remain the only public evidence of activity regarding the franchise.
When tracking potential game revivals, look for job postings at the publisher that mention “classic RPG” or “unannounced project” alongside active trademark renewals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a new Ultima game currently in development?
EA has not confirmed any active development. The company has only filed new trademarks for the intellectual property. - Who owns the rights to Ultima?
EA retains the rights to the Ultima series following its 1992 acquisition of Origin Systems. - When was the last mainline Ultima game released?
The last mainline title, Ultima IX: Ascension, was released in 1999.
What are your memories of the Ultima series? Do you think the franchise should be revived, or is it best left as a classic piece of gaming history? Join the discussion in the comments section below to share your thoughts on the future of classic RPGs.
