Recently, Activision merged with Sierra. In the process of this merger, several games where put out to pasture, as a cost cutting measure. Brütal Legend was among one of the more prominent titles released. Since the game is being helmed by Tim Schafer of Grim Fandango and Psychonauts fame, it was a forgone conclusion that they would find another publisher.

One of the primary rumors centered around the game finding a snug new home at Electronic Arts. Gamasutra had the chance to sit down with EA's CEO John Riccitiello and discuss this very topic:

EA's apparent development of a progressive attitude toward unexpected titles has fueled rumors that the publisher might pick up Double Fine's odd – but fan-favorite – heavy metal action anthem Brutal Legend, dropped in the shuffle of Activision's merger with Vivendi.

"I have seen it," says Riccitiello. "I am well aware of what the game is. It's a very significant creative risk."

And though EA's CEO won't offer specific comments on whether or not the company has plans for the title, he adds, "Sometimes significant creative risks end up being some of the world's best products. Spore was also a significant creative risk. So was The Sims. Portal, BioShock. But so was [the relatively poor-selling, if critically acclaimed] Grim Fandango"

The latter, like Brutal Legend, was designed by Tim Schafer -- a connection surely not lost on Riccitiello. -- Gamasutra

While that is far from a confirmation, it sounds like there may be a more conclusive announcement on the horizon. I just hope the game finds a publisher that will let Tim Schafer do what he does best, make hilarious games. After all, EA has enough money lying around to take a risk or two every once and a while.