The Return of Ultima: A Creator’s Quest for Copyright

The Future of Ultima: Richard Garriott’s Quest to Reclaim the Series

It has been nearly eight years since a new Ultima game has graced our screens. Underworld Ascendant, released back in the day, was the last installment in the long-running series. However, the franchise’s popularity seems to have waned over the years, as many classic series do. Yet, recent developments suggest that Ultima may be making a comeback. EA, the current rights holder of Ultima, filed new trademarks for the series, sparking speculation about its revival. Richard “Lord British” Garriott, the creator of Ultima, is reportedly attempting to regain control of the copyright, hinting at a potential resurrection of the beloved franchise.

In a recent interview with PC Gamer, Garriott revealed his ongoing efforts to revive Ultima. Despite numerous attempts to collaborate with EA over the years, discussions always fizzled out. However, with the recent trademark filings by EA, Garriott seems determined to reclaim the series. He mentioned that every decade, he approached EA with plans for a revival, only to be met with fleeting interest. Now, in 2027, he sees an opportunity to reclaim the copyright and breathe new life into Ultima.

Under US copyright law, creators or their heirs can reclaim ownership of a copyrighted work after 35 years. EA acquired the rights to Ultima from Garriott in 1992, setting the stage for a potential return of the series in 2027. Garriott expressed his anticipation for this moment, stating, “I have been waiting… finally, the time has come!”

While Garriott aims to revive Ultima, he faces a challenge due to EA’s ownership of the trademark. Copyright law protects elements like source code and audiovisual content, whereas trademarks safeguard brand names and specific characters. Garriott acknowledged this hurdle, emphasizing that “Lord British’s Ultima” will reclaim the original work’s copyrights. The next step involves shaping the future of the series amidst legal complexities.

Garriott hinted at unveiling more details during his appearance at Dragon Con later this year. He expressed his eagerness to explore the possibilities and implications of Ultima’s revival, leaving fans hopeful for the series’ return. Whether it retains the original name or undergoes a rebranding, the prospect of experiencing more Ultima adventures in the near future is enticing. Stay tuned for updates on the evolution of Ultima and Garriott’s quest to redefine the gaming landscape.