Why Dune 2's Re-Release Is a Legal Maze for GOG
Fans of classic RTS games may never see a legal re-release of Dune 2, highlighting the challenges of game preservation when multiple rights holders are involved.
Fans of classic RTS games may never see a legal re-release of Dune 2, highlighting the challenges of game preservation when multiple rights holders are involved.
Key points - Dune 2: The Building of a Dynasty was developed by Westwood Studios and released in 1992. - EA owns the game code and assets, but not the Dune IP. - The game is based on the 1984 film, involving Universal Pictures and producer Dino De Laurentiis's successor. - The Herbert Foundation and Legendary Pictures also hold rights, with Funcom having an exclusive game license. - GOG's Marcin Paczynski says the game might only sell 50,000-100,000 units at $5.99-$9.99.
Timeline - 1992: Westwood Studios releases Dune 2: The Building of a Dynasty. - 1984: Universal Pictures releases the Dune film, which the game is based on. - ~2009: Producer Dino De Laurentiis passes away, leaving his rights to a successor. - Present: GOG attempts to secure a re-release but faces a five-way licensing impasse.
FAQ
Q: Why can't GOG just re-release Dune 2? A: Because the rights are split among EA (game code), Universal (film), De Laurentiis's successor, the Herbert Foundation, and Legendary Pictures, with Funcom holding an exclusive game license.
Q: Who owns the Dune IP? A: The Herbert Foundation holds the overall IP, but the game is based on the 1984 film, so Universal and De Laurentiis's successor also have claims, while Legendary owns the new film rights.
Q: Will Dune 2 ever be legally available again? A: It's uncertain. GOG's Marcin Paczynski says the licensing situation is extremely complicated, and the exclusivity with Funcom for Dune: Awakening adds another layer of difficulty.
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