Gearbox picks up Homeworld franchise [Updated]

Now we know who beat out developer TeamPixel for the Homeworld series. Gearbox Software has announced its purchase of THQ's Homeworld franchise. This is first confirmed pickup from THQ's auction of its remaining IP, including Darksiders, Red Faction, and Destroy All Humans. According to Gearbox's announcement, the purchase was spearheaded by a single executive at the developer.

"Gearbox Software has prevailed as the highest bidder in the acquisition of the Homeworld franchise from THQ. Brian Martel, Gearbox Software's Chief Creative Officer, has great love and respect for Relic's brilliant, fun and innovative game and personally spearheaded the acquisition." said the company in its announcement.

"Brian intends as first priority to direct Gearbox's interest to preserve and assemble the purest form of the original acclaimed and beloved games, Homeworld and Homeworld 2, with the intent of making them accessible on today's leading digital platforms."

No word if that means Homeworld 1 & 2 will see a PC re-release, or if they'll be redone for iOS and Android platforms. The court still has to approve Gearbox's winning bid, a process that should be completed by the end of May.

Update: Paradox Interactive and Stardock have revealed themselves as bidders on Homeworld, via Twitter. Stardock CEO Brad Wardell said his company was the second-highest bidder, and Paradox CEO Fredrik Wester revealed his company as number three in line.

"We didn't get the Homeworld IP. We were the second highest bidder," tweeted Wardell.

"We finished third in the Homeworld auction; I would have loved to work on that IP, but wish the winners all the best and hope for a great [Homeworld 3]," added Wester.