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Sigil Drops Microsoft, Publishing With SOE

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the hahahahahahahaha dept.

Labyrrinth writes "'As the development process is ongoing and constantly shifting, it became clear that MGS and Sigil had varying visions and direction for the title's development,' said Brad McQuaid, CEO of Sigil Games Online. 'In the best interest of Vanguard, it was decided that we would buy back the publishing rights from Microsoft.'" They've hooked up with Sony Online Entertainment, publishers of EQ and EQII, and Brad McQuaid's old employer. Aggro Me has commentary on this union.

1 of 43 comments (clear)

  1. This is a Good Thing by jettoki · · Score: 5, Informative

    People have been overreacting to this all day, even though it's actually a boon for Vanguard.

    1) Sigil now has complete control over production, release, and funding -- they didn't before. (Microsoft was pushing for an earlier, unfinished release)

    2) Sigil now makes a greater profit from the game, as they now own the IP rights. Expansions will be released on THEIR schedule, not at SOE's.

    3) SOE will ONLY be handling marketing and technical support. They are probably the best in the business at both, even if they suck at developing.

    4) Sigil will provide in-game customer service; GMs will be Sigil employees and Guides will be part of a volunteer program.

    5) Any attempts on the part of SOE to bully Sigil will be considered breach of contract, and Sigil will move to a different datacenter. They have stated this in the face of so much 'player' opposition -- I really doubt anything is going to happen.

    In summary: The game belongs more to Sigil now than it ever has, and this partnership is going to benefit the game greatly. Brad and company have been very forthcoming and honest about this over at the Vanguard boards, and that's a trend that's going to continue.