Ubisoft cancels six games and restructures its studio setup: what is the plan of one of the most powerful studios in the world
Ubisoft, a titan in the video game industry, has announced significant restructuring, including the cancellation of six major projects and the closure of several studios. This strategic shift follows a sharp decline in the company's market value, which has fallen from €11 billion in 2018 to approximately €606 million, and anticipates substantial operating losses of €1 billion for the fiscal year 2026. The move signals a critical re-evaluation of its development pipeline and business strategy in response to current market pressures. The cancellations encompass highly anticipated titles, notably the remake of 'Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time', a project that had undergone multiple iterations. Additional projects shelved reportedly include an 'Assassin's Creed' title set post-American Civil War, an early-stage 'Splinter Cell' game, a sequel to 'Star Wars Outlaws', and the definitive end of the 'Watch Dogs' franchise following the underperformance of 'Legion'. These cancellations, along with seven delayed games, represent a financial write-off of €650 million in amortizations. This drastic measure comes after a series of setbacks for Ubisoft, including the protracted and costly development of 'Skull and Bones', which incurred expenses between $200 and $850 million. The company's strategic pivot may involve a greater focus on more financially secure projects or a re-evaluation of its extensive intellectual property portfolio to align with evolving player expectations and market realities.
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