There is nothing more disappointing to a gamer when a game they have on their radar gets delayed. Then, it gets delayed again. You get the idea. As it turns out, major developing houses are also none too thrilled when their games don’t get made on time, and this time is going legal.
Activision is suing Double Fine, a company they paid 15 million to make Brutal Legend. They missed the deadline and asked for nine more months and 7 million more dollars. They tried to renegotiate the terms, but it didn’t work out. Enter, lawsuit. What’s even worse is Activision’s claims that they never relinquished the rights for Brutal Legend to EA to publish the game. Essentially, Activision paid for most of Brutal Legend’s development and EA is reaping the benefits.
Why didn’t Activision say something earlier when EA had a few big reveals for the game? Waiting until E3 to file suit just seems a bit odd. However you look at it, though, it all smells a bit fishy.
The reason they didn’t bring the lawsuit up earlier is simply a money issue. It wasn’t worth the legal costs if the game was going to fail. During the weeks before and during E3 it became apparent that the game could very well be a hit and thus the legal action.
I think it’s been clear for quite a while that the game will be a hit. Even as far back at the Spike VGA’s where the game was presented.
Good point. Either way I still think this was a money driven decision by Activision.
Personally I don’t know who to be mad at here. If Activision really does have the rights then they should be taking it to the courts. On the other hand if it is just some dirty corporate game then the only people hurt will be the fans who have to wait for the release.
Agreed Fikus. If Activision really does have the license, there is legitimate cause for suit here. But it very well could just be a power play. I’m sure we’ll hear more soon. Since it’s in a legal battle, neither company will comment right now.
Activision needs to burn.
Morne
You really think EA is any better then Activision?
No, but for this particular discussion, Activision is definitely the bad guy.
Morne
if activision paid 15 mil to get this made, they have a right to get the money back or put out the title if it was not released from their contract. of course every business move is about money. what else would it be about?