Ultima creator Richard Garriott reclaiming rights from EA under 35-year copyright law

Ultima creator Richard Garriott says he notified EA in April 2026 that he will reclaim the copyright to the series 35 years after selling Origin Systems in 1992. EA acknowledged the law and the two sides are in active talks about possible collaboration. Garriott could re-release early Ultima games or make sequels.

• Origin Systems and Ultima rights were sold to EA in 1992
• US copyright law allows authors to reclaim rights after 35 years
• Garriott notified EA in April 2026, one year before reclaiming
• EA confirmed the law applies; talks on joint plans are ongoing