Double Fine Shifts Focus to New Original IP
Fans eagerly awaiting continuations of beloved Double Fine series like Psychonauts and Brütal Legend may need to temper their expectations, at least for the foreseeable future. Speaking with IGN at gamescom 2025, studio head Tim Schafer confirmed that the acclaimed developer is currently focused on multiple new projects, all of which are original intellectual properties.
Schafer explained the studio's current direction, stating, "We're working on a bunch of new games right now, and they're all original IP because Psychonauts 2 is out, and that's enough to keep us from returning to sequels for a while." This statement underscores Double Fine’s long-standing philosophy of innovation and fresh ideas.
The announcement of Psychonauts 2 was once a significant moment for the studio, marking their first true full-fledged sequel. Despite the critical and commercial success of the game, Double Fine appears intent on maintaining its commitment to crafting unique, standalone experiences rather than simply revisiting established worlds. This approach aligns with the studio's history of creating distinct and memorable games.
This sentiment is not new for the studio. Around the 15th anniversary of Brütal Legend, the team explicitly stated that a sequel to the cult action-adventure game was not in their immediate plans. It appears this position remains unchanged, further emphasizing their dedication to new concepts.
However, players won't be without new content from Double Fine for long. Gamers can look forward to the studio's upcoming project, Keeper. This new title is set to launch on PC (Steam) and Xbox Series X/S, including Game Pass, on October 17. The game is also confirmed to include Russian language localization. Keeper promises to deliver Double Fine’s signature blend of creativity and an unconventional approach to its genre, offering a fresh experience that embodies the studio's renewed focus on original storytelling and gameplay.
This strategic shift means that while familiar characters may not return for new adventures immediately, players can anticipate a continuous stream of innovative and imaginative titles that exemplify Double Fine's unique vision in the gaming landscape.
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