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Moon Studios Denies Ori 3 Rumors, Eyes IP Buyback From Microsoft

Daniel Cross 2 min read

Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler denies rumors of an Ori 3 sequel, stating Microsoft has shared no plans for a new title while the studio considers buying the IP back.

Moon Studios Denies Ori 3 Rumors, Eyes IP Buyback From Microsoft
GAMES

Rumors of a third Ori game have surfaced on social media, prompting Moon Studios to issue a direct denial. The studio’s leadership stated there is no new title in development, closing the door on speculation about an upcoming Xbox release. Players hoping for a sequel should temper their expectations, as the creator confirms the franchise is not currently active.

Studio leadership clarifies franchise status while exploring ownership options

Thomas Mahler, the CEO of Moon Studios, addressed the chatter on X by calling the rumors nonsense. He noted that he has received no information from Microsoft regarding a new Ori project. The studio remains focused on its current independent operations rather than revisiting the franchise.

Mahler revealed that Moon Studios is internally discussing the possibility of purchasing the Ori intellectual property back from Microsoft. He expressed confidence that the original team is the only group capable of handling the series effectively. This potential move aligns with the studio’s recent shift toward full independence.

Moon Studios regained publishing rights to its latest title, No Rest for the Wicked, in March 2025. This milestone marked the studio’s transition to full independence from Microsoft. The discussion about acquiring Ori rights appears to be part of a broader strategy to reclaim creative control over past works.

Source: VideoGameChronicles