Saber Interactive: We Can Get *Any* IP, and Here’s How They Do It

In the ever-shifting landscape of the video game industry, few studios have experienced as dramatic a transformation in recent years as Saber Interactive. From the initial surge with “World War Z” to now reviving dormant gaming series like “Turok” and remaking classics such as “Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic,” Saber has consistently delivered. Now, Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits is making bold claims about their ability to acquire any IP.

The Confidence of a Revived Studio

Saber Interactive isn’s just churning out games; they’re strategically reviving beloved franchises and breathing new life into dormant IPs. This confidence stems from a clear-cut approach: “We don’t greenlight any project unless we can make 4x its cost.” Tim Willits pointed to “SnowRunner” as a prime example, highlighting how a relatively small team and budget of around six million dollars resulted in hundreds of millions in revenue. “World War Z” is another testament to this approach, with a dedicated fanbase and consistent DLC releases.

Strategic Acquisitions and Universal Partnerships

The upcoming Jon Wick action game is a perfect example of this strategy. “You know that’s going to be awesome,” Willits declared. Even smaller projects, like the revival of “Stuntman,” benefit from strategic partnerships. “We acquired the IP from Embracer when we were there, we worked with Universal to bring over franchises people know, to bring more attention to the game.” This approach allows Saber to balance risk and reward, funding ambitious projects like “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3” with more predictable revenue streams.

A Legacy of Innovation

Tim Willits brings decades of experience to the table, having spent 23 years at id Software, the creators of “Doom” and “Quake.” He played a key role in shaping some of the most iconic games of all time. When asked about reviving other classic IPs like “Hexen” and “Strife,” Willits joked about needing to make a few phone calls, even mentioning specific contacts. This highlights his deep understanding of the industry and his ability to navigate complex licensing situations.

The Future of Gaming

Willits believes that other companies, including giants like Microsoft, could follow Saber’s lead. He envisions a future where dormant IPs are dusted off and given new life. “Somebody will make the Half Life 2 of AI,” he told Eurogamer, hinting at the potential for innovative uses of artificial intelligence in gaming.

What’s Next for Saber?

Saber Interactive currently has multiple projects in development, including “Turok Origins” and “Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival,” both showcased at Gamescom. The studio is also working on “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 3,” a highly anticipated sequel that fans are eagerly awaiting.

AI and the Future of Development

Willits also addressed the studio’s approach to generative AI, following some controversy surrounding “Rideshare Simulator.” While acknowledging that the use of AI in that title was an “experiment,” he believes that public perception of the technology could evolve. His statement about the potential for a “Half Life 2 of AI” suggests a belief in the transformative power of this emerging field.