Microsoft announced the acquisition of the popular "Gears of War" games franchise from Epic Games killing the possibility of the game ever appearing on a Sony PlayStation console.
Microsoft has bought the popular "Gears of War" games franchise from publisher Epic Games and now holds the rights to all existing and future games, entertainment experiences, and merchandise for the franchise. According to the software giant, the Vancouver-based BC's Black Tusk Studio will supervise the development of the game franchise and has appointed former series producer Rod Fergusson to call the shots.
The Redmond-based software giant confirmed the acquisition in a post on Xbox Wire, Monday. Microsoft has played an important role in the development of the game alongside Epic Games. By acquiring Gears of War, Microsoft adds the game to its Xbox-exclusive games portfolio, which includes the upcoming Titanfall and Halo 5 along with existing titles like Forza 5, Ryse: Son of Rome and Dead Rising 3.
Taking over the rights of the game franchise from Epic Games does not put an end to the close ties between Microsoft and Epic, in fact Hanno Lemke, general manager of Black Tusk Studios at Microsoft Studios revealed that Epic Games will stay on in an advisory role to ensure " the inclusion of the Unreal Engine technology into the 'Gears of War' franchise going forward remains consistent."
Fergusson will work along with Lemke and other leaders to ensure smooth functioning of the franchise at Black Tusk Studios. Fergusson's expertise includes his experience on all the existing Gears of War games and also his personal attachment to the game. "This really feels like a homecoming," he said.
Gears of War, the third person shooter game, has sold over 22 million copies worldwide, grossing more than $1 billion, said Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Studios, in a statement. The company will share more details about the future of the game later this year.
