Gearbox Software Buys Duke Nukem from 3D Realms

Just days after finding out that Duke Nukem Forever is actually going to be released and is currently in development by Gearbox Software, we find out that Gearbox actually owns the Duke Nukem IP.  Gearbox Software president, Randy Pitchford told an audience at the Penny Arcade Expo today: "We actually bought the brand,.. We bought Duke Nukem."

What this means is that Gearbox Software bought the rights to Duke Nukem from 3D Realms.  Everything from Duke Nukem Forever forward is theirs to do what they want.  According to Alan Blum, the creator of Duke Nukem who is now with Gearbox Software, he didn't buy Duke Nukem from 3D Realms, they sold it to him due to their continued passion, commitment and long-time heritage with the brand and 3D Realms.