Embracer Group plans to license out major dormant franchises to external developers, opening the door for new entries in Deus Ex, Saints Row, TimeSplitters, and Thief. The publisher announced the strategy as part of restructuring into multiple companies, with a newly formed IP and licensing division tasked with "more actively" exploring partnerships around these properties.
The move signals Embracer's shift from sitting on underutilized franchises to monetizing them through third-party development. Deus Ex has been silent since Mankind Divided in 2016. Saints Row last released in 2022 to mixed reception. TimeSplitters remains in limbo nearly two decades after its last mainline entry. Thief similarly hasn't seen a new installment since 2014.
Embracer holds significant IP real estate but lacks the internal capacity or apparent priority to develop everything in-house. Rather than let these properties gather dust, licensing them to studios with bandwidth and fresh vision could revive dormant franchises. External partners might approach these series with different creative angles, potentially attracting audiences burned out on Embracer's recent output.
The licensing model carries risks. Bad third-party entries could damage beloved franchises. Control and quality assurance become harder to maintain. However, Embracer demonstrated willingness to experiment with this approach before, licensing properties to varying success across its portfolio.
The timing matters. Gaming audiences hunger for new immersive sims like Deus Ex and action franchises with identity like Saints Row. TimeSplitters especially maintains a devoted cult following despite decades without new content. The right partner could capitalize on nostalgia while modernizing gameplay for current audiences.
Embracer's restructuring into separate companies puts increased pressure on new divisions to prove their worth. The IP and licensing group needs quick wins to justify its existence. Licensing out recognizable franchises offers