Developer Vanillaware has secured a new publisher for its multiplayer action-RPG, Dragon's Crown. Formerly in the hands of troubled publisher UTV Ignition, the rights have now transferred to Atlus.

In Dragon's Crown, up to four players can choose from a selection of six different characters who explore labyrinths for treasure, ultimately seeking the coveted Dragon's Crown. Although publishing rights are now secured, folks are going to have to wait a bit longer than initially expected before they'll be able to get their hands on the game.

"While we are saddened to no longer be associated with the Dragon's Crown project, we are very confident that the title is in excellent hands with Atlus," said senior vice president of UTV Ignition Entertainment, Lokesh Dhar. "Since the initial announcement, information on timing and features in the game have changed and other details regarding design and functionality are yet to be determined. We are confident that Atlus and Vanillaware will deliver the finest game possible."

Key members of the Atlus internal development team--including folks who've worked on the Persona series--will act as producers on the project.

Dragon's Crown is expected to arrive for PlayStation 3 and Vita at some point in 2013.