Double Fine has confirmed it holds the intellectual property and publishing rights to its game catalogue, including Kiln, following the studio’s split from Microsoft earlier this year. The confirmation came directly from CEO Tim Schafer, who addressed the studio's independence during a recent appearance on Kinda Funny Games.
Impact on Players and Studio Support
While the transfer of rights is underway, Schafer noted that the process for some titles remains in transition with Xbox. Despite the administrative work still being finalized, he emphasized that purchasing the studio's games—such as Psychonauts 2, Keeper, and Kiln—now directly benefits the team, as the revenue generated helps sustain the studio following its departure from Microsoft.
Quick Facts
- Studio Status: Independent, following a split from Microsoft in 2026.
- IP Ownership: Double Fine retains ownership of its back catalogue, including Kiln.
- Future Projects: The studio is reviving its "Amnesia Fortnight" game jam, with a Kickstarter campaign scheduled from August 31 through September.
- Operational Changes: The studio underwent a reduction of approximately 25% of its 90-person team as part of the transition to independence.
The split is part of a broader reorganisation within the Xbox division announced in July, which resulted in several studios, including South of Midnight developer Compulsion Games, transitioning back to independent status. Like Double Fine, Compulsion Games has also confirmed it retains ownership of its intellectual property.