Microsoft Studios has acquired the rights to the "Gears of War" franchise from Epic Games, including rights to all existing and future games, entertainment experiences and merchandise.
Black Tusk Studios in Vancouver, BC will take over development of the "Gears of War" franchise and that Rod Fergusson, former Director of Production at Epic Games on the "Gears of War" franchise, will join Microsoft and play a key studio leadership role at Black Tusk on the development of the franchise going forward.
This move aims to ensure that the Gears of War franchise would remain exclusive to Xbox. "The Gears of War franchise has a very strong, passionate and valued fan base on Xbox. Over twenty-two million units have been sold across all Gears of War titles worldwide, grossing over $1B," explained Phil Spencer, Head of Microsoft Studios. "This franchise, and these fans, are part of the soul of Xbox. By acquiring this franchise, Microsoft Studios will continue to offer them more of their favorite games and entertainment experiences from the Gears of War universe.
Microsoft affirmed that it continues to work closely to make sure the inclusion of the Unreal Engine technology in Gears of War remains consistent with the high quality fans have come to expect from the franchise.