http://news.xbox.com/2014/01/games-micr ... ars-of-warMicrosoft Studios acquires rights to Gears of War franchise
Today we're excited to announce that 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. In addition, we are excited to announce that 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. We had a chance to chat with Phil Spencer, Head of Microsoft Studios, Hanno Lemke, General Manager of Black Tusk Studios at Microsoft Studios, and Rod Fergusson about the big news.
Epic probably realised they can't milk that franchise any longer and decided to sell it off.
More interesting is what could this mean to Unreal series? They sold their biggest IP and besides Unreal Engine what's left? We haven't heard much about Fortnite since the announcement. New Unreal game?