Tim Schafer Rules Out Sequels, Focuses on New Double Fine Originals

Double Fine is steering clear of sequels – at least for now. Studio founder Tim Schafer has confirmed that after the October release of Keeper, fans shouldn’t expect a Psychonauts 3 or Brütal Legend 2 any time soon.

Instead, the Microsoft-owned developer is focused on brand new original projects.

Keeper, led by veteran designer Lee Petty, is a moody puzzle adventure about an ancient lighthouse that awakens and sets out on a mysterious journey. Schafer told IGN during gamescom 2025 that his hands are free from this project, letting him dive into other ideas already in development at Double Fine. He made it clear that the studio currently has multiple projects underway – and they’re all fresh IPs.

“We did Psychonauts 2, and that will hold us for sequels for a while,” Schafer explained. That statement effectively puts to rest the near-term hopes of fans wishing for follow-ups to the studio’s cult classics. Of course, he didn’t rule them out forever, but the priority now is building unexpected worlds and characters.

Microsoft’s 2019 acquisition of Double Fine gave the studio more breathing room, allowing them to restore features like cut boss fights back into Psychonauts 2, which finally launched in 2021 to strong acclaim. Schafer now describes Keeper as a smaller game in scope but still crafted with the studio’s signature personality and polish. It arrives October 17, 2025, for PC and Xbox Series X|S.

For longtime fans, the message is clear: Double Fine is doubling down on creativity. Sequels can wait – the next few years will be about new adventures nobody saw coming.