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The Swedish publisher seems intent on filling its roster with forlorn fan favorites, having also recently picked up the rights to Timesplitters.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

September 6, 2018

1 Min Read

THQ Nordic has purchased the rights to Kingdoms of Amalur and the canceled MMO Project Copernicus from developer 38 Studios. 

The Swedish publisher seems intent on filling its roster with forlorn fan favorites, having also recently picked up the rights to Timesplitters

The first entry in a potential series, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning was co-developed by 38 Studios and Big Huge Games, who brought in Spawn creator Todd McFarlane and Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion lead designer Ken Rolston to oversee the project. 

It launched in 2012 and garnered favorable reviews -- despite a fair few bugs and a reliance on familiar tropes -- and according to 38 Studios founder Curt Schilling racked up 1.2 million sales in its first three months. 

Alas, that's where the good times ended, and shortly after release 38 Studios declared bankruptcy after missing a loan payment that dragged the company into a lengthy legal battle with the state of Rhode Island. 

Prior to that, there had been talk of a sequel, and publisher EA was reportedly keen on the idea. That long-awaited follow-up might now be back on the cards though, with THQ suggesting it'll be evaluating the viability of "sequels and new content."

About the Author(s)

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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