Lorne doesn't sell the rights, that's the last thing he would do.
Simply other developpers are making the game and he's still behind.
On the other hand I know an Oddworld Licensing Guide does exist. Pages are here:
http://www.oddworlduniverse.com/togg...N/OTUN0003.jpg
http://www.oddworlduniverse.com/togg...N/OTUN0004.jpg
http://www.oddworlduniverse.com/togg...N/OTUN0005.jpg
http://www.oddworlduniverse.com/togg...N/OTUN0006.jpg
That means the company developping for Lorne has to read it and respect it.
Thus will understand what Oddworld is all about I hope. At least they won't contradict the other games and official information.