It's hard not to feel as if something is amiss with the game company Interplay Entertainment, especially after today's news. A press release on Nasdaq Newswire revealed that Interplay has plans to sell off its various "video game assets and intellectual property", said to encompass 70 titles.
Eric Caen, the president of Interplay, went on to acknowledge how their games – which include the likes of Earthworm Jim, Descent, Freespace, and MDK – have provided entertainment for many gamers over the years. Alluding to Interplay's intent behind selling these IPs, Caen said:
"With the proliferation of mobile, augmented reality, virtual reality and other new forms of consumption, we believe that consumers are ready to experience and interact with Interplay's characters, stories and gameplay in ways never possible before. We look forward to seeing how this unique portfolio of interactive entertainment icons will evolve for the worldwide audience."
Interplay's decision to sell its properties, while abrupt, isn't unexpected given their history. The studio has struggled financially since the late 1990s, dealing with everything from the threat of bankruptcy to multiple lawsuits. Additionally, their sale of the Fallout franchise to Bethesda Softworks in 2007 establishes a precedent for future IP sales.
Jesse Teixeira
Hey, I remember these guys. They made this really old game I loved called Evolva…was pretty decent title. Shame to hear they’re going under.