Microsoft Registered the Senua Brand as Ninja Theory Closed Down

Senua has been re-registered by Microsoft at a time when Ninja Theory’s future has become seriously uncertain. The application, dated September 15, 2026, is noteworthy because the company wants to protect not only existing game titles like Senua’s Saga or Senua’s Sacrifice, but the character’s name itself. Moreover, this move coincides almost exactly with news that Ninja Theory has failed to reach an agreement with another publisher and is close to shutting down.

Senua Brand Rights May Remain with Microsoft

The application, seen in the records of the European Union Intellectual Property Office, shows that Microsoft wants to continue holding the trademark rights to the name Senua. This is particularly noteworthy because it was stated that some studios that split off from Xbox during the restructuring earlier this year, such as Double Fine and Compulsion Games, protected their own intellectual property rights. The situation appears different for Ninja Theory.

It is reported that the studio sought a deal with another publisher, but negotiations were unsuccessful, and the possibility of closure has become quite strong. However, neither Microsoft nor Ninja Theory has yet released a final statement confirming the studio’s definitive closure. Therefore, while current information suggests a closure is imminent, it shouldn’t be considered a final decision.

The trademark application naturally raises the possibility that Microsoft may develop new projects in the Hellblade universe in the future. The company could theoretically use the Senua character even without Ninja Theory. However, there is currently no official information indicating that a new Hellblade or Senua project is being developed. The application only definitively shows that Microsoft continues to legally protect the character name.

This move comes at a time when 268 more positions have been eliminated at Xbox and the studio structure has been significantly altered. Alongside major changes such as Halo Studios being acquired by Activision and Obsidian coming under Bethesda management, the re-registration of the Senua trademark provides a small but significant clue as to which series Microsoft intends to retain in the long term.

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