Full Breakdown
Ultima’s Future at a Legal Crossroads: Garriott’s Copyright Reclamation and EA’s Trademark Moves
6/22/2026, 12:32:37 PM
The Legal Pivot: Copyright Reclamation and Trademark Filings
Richard Garriott, the original creator of the Ultima role-playing series, is preparing to invoke the U.S. copyright provision that permits authors to reclaim rights 35 years after transfer, while Electronic Arts has recently submitted trademark applications covering the Ultima name.
Background & Context
Richard Garriott, known as Lord British, created the Ultima series. In 1992 he sold Origin Systems to Electronic Arts (EA), transferring all rights. Under U.S. copyright law, creators may reclaim rights after 35 years, making 2027 the first year Garriott can act. EA has recently filed new trademark applications for Ultima, but the series has seen only limited releases (Ultima Online, Ultima Forever, Lord of Ultima) since the acquisition.
Timeline
1992 – EA acquires Origin Systems and Ultima rights.
2024 – Garriott announces intent to reclaim copyrights and notes repeated, brief revival talks with EA.
2024 – EA files new Ultima trademark applications.
2027 – Garriott becomes eligible to exercise the 35-year reclamation.
Late 2024 – Garriott scheduled to speak at Dragon Con about future plans.
Why It Matters
If Garriott regains copyright while EA retains trademark rights, two separate Ultima projects could arise: one using the original design philosophy under a new brand, and another using the Ultima name under EA. This split would affect branding, development control, and fan expectations, illustrating how copyright and trademark law can diverge for legacy IP.
Official Statements & Responses
Garriott says each decade he approached EA, talks began but ended quickly, and he is now ready to reclaim copyrights now that the legal window opened. EA has filed trademark applications but has not disclosed any planned Ultima projects.
Verbatim Quotes
"Every decade or so, I tried to work with EA on a revival of Ultima. They always seemed interested enough to start talking, then abandoned talks just as quickly." — Richard Garriott, Creator
"And so, I have been waiting… finally, the time has come!" — Richard Garriott, Creator
"'Lord British's Ultima' will regain all the copyrights of my original work. What it will become is the next challenge." — Richard Garriott, Creator
"more thoughts together about what that will actually mean." — Richard Garriott, Dragon Con speaker
What’s Next
Garriott will discuss his copyright strategy at Dragon Con later this year, expecting to share more details. EA’s trademark filings suggest it may still pursue Ultima-branded projects, though no timeline is provided. The 2027 eligibility date will determine when Garriott can formally exercise reclaimed rights, potentially prompting new development.
