Embracer Group currently owns the Saints Row intellectual property.
The Journey of Saints Row Ownership
The ownership of the popular action-adventure video game series, Saints Row, has seen some significant developments over the years, all pointing back to its current proprietor.
Embracer Group's Acquisition
In 2018, the Swedish video game holding company, Embracer Group, made a strategic move by acquiring both the game developer Volition and, crucially, the intellectual property (IP) rights to the entire Saints Row franchise. This acquisition firmly placed Saints Row under Embracer's expansive portfolio.
Developer Transitions and Studio Closure
While the IP remained with Embracer Group, its developer, Volition, underwent internal changes within the larger corporation before its eventual closure:
- Internal Transfer (November 2022): Volition was internally transferred to Gearbox Entertainment, another prominent studio operating under the Embracer Group umbrella. This move aimed to streamline operations and leverage synergies within the group.
- Studio Closure (June 2023): As part of a broader restructuring program announced by Embracer Group, Volition, the long-standing developer of Saints Row, unfortunately closed its doors. This decision was part of Embracer's efforts to strengthen its position in the video game industry. The closure of the studio, however, does not alter the ownership of the Saints Row IP itself, which remains with Embracer Group. For more details on the studio's closure, you can refer to reports like this one: Saints Row developer Volition closes amid Embracer restructuring
Current Status of Saints Row IP
Despite the developer's closure, the Saints Row IP is still an asset of Embracer Group. This means any future development, licensing, or publishing decisions regarding the franchise will be made by Embracer Group, potentially assigning it to another one of their studios or partners.
Key Milestones in Saints Row Ownership
Here's a quick overview of the recent history concerning Saints Row and its developer:
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Embracer Group Acquires IP & Volition | Embracer Group purchases both the developer Volition and the intellectual property rights for Saints Row, bringing the franchise under its direct ownership. |
| Nov 2022 | Volition Transferred to Gearbox | Volition, the Saints Row developer, is internally moved to Gearbox Entertainment within the Embracer Group structure, indicating internal portfolio management. |
| Jun 2023 | Volition Closes | Amid Embracer Group's major restructuring program, the development studio Volition closes. The Saints Row IP, however, remains owned by Embracer Group, paving the way for potential future installments by other developers. |
This timeline clarifies that while the original developer is no longer active, the Saints Row franchise continues to be a part of Embracer Group's extensive collection of gaming properties.
