'Fallout' IP Goes To Bethesda Softworks

Interplay Remains Committed to 'Fallout' MMO, Bethesda Gets 12 Percent

http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1057232/000117091807000324/0001170918-07-000324.txt
According to this SEC filing Bethseda Softworks and Interplay have switched licensing position for their upcoming titles based in the Fallout universe. The filing details a transaction between the two companies with Bethesda outright purchasing the rights to the Fallout franchise for a reported $5.75 million.

Previously Interplay held onto the rights so they could try and make a Fallout MMO and were licensing the use of the franchise to Bethesda for Fallout 3. The new deal now makes Bethesda the sole owner of the Fallout IP.

The deal does come with some stipulations. First off, Interplay must start working on their MMO and secure funding of 30 million dollars within two years. In addition, the untitled and technically still unannounced, MMO must launch within four years after development begins or Interplay will lose the rights to the license. The sale of the license to Interplay will garner Bethesda 12 percent of sales and subscriptions fees from the upcoming MMO. Finalization of the deal is expected to happen in Q3 2007.

Seems that the Fallout MMO is on track for the projected 2010 release date with the absolute latest launch being April 13, 2013 if you do a little math!
956 views 3 replies
Reply #1 Top
As I recall, Interplay's tagline was "By Gamers, For Gamers" - so why are they so hell bent on making this MMO? It seems to me that if Interplay really wants to survive they would work towards entering the casual games market to rebuild. There's less risk, less overhead and it would be far easier to do.
Reply #2 Top
I guess they want to try and hold onto at least one IP (in some fashion) from there glory days?  I still don't really like the idea of a Fallout MMO but if they get some good designers behind it who knows.
Reply #3 Top
They just sold their IP to Bethesda, though. Time for them to wake up and get serious, if they're serious.