Ubisoft’s Shifting Sands: From Prince of Persia to a Murky Future for Assassin’s Creed
Ubisoft is undergoing a significant restructuring, a move that has already claimed several titles, including the highly anticipated Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake. But the fallout extends further, with reports surfacing about the cancellation of a standalone multiplayer Assassin’s Creed project, codenamed Assassin’s Creed Legacy. This signals a potential shift in strategy for the gaming giant, raising questions about the future of both franchises.
The Demise of Assassin’s Creed Legacy: A Multiplayer Vision Lost
According to reports from Origami, Assassin’s Creed Legacy was initially conceived as a DLC expansion for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set in feudal Japan. Yet, the project evolved into a standalone multiplayer experience, envisioned to support up to four players. Development was being handled by Ubisoft Annecy, the studio behind the multiplayer components of previous Assassin’s Creed titles like Brotherhood, Unity, and Black Flag.
Closed testing was planned for May, but the project was ultimately scrapped following the announcement of Ubisoft’s partnership with Tencent through the Vantage initiative. This suggests a change in priorities, potentially steering Assassin’s Creed towards a different direction under new leadership.
A Troubled Restructuring: Beyond Cancelled Games
The cancellation of Legacy is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Ubisoft has cancelled a total of six games, including four unannounced titles and a mobile game. Two studios, one in Stockholm, Sweden, and another in Halifax, Canada, have also been closed, with restructuring occurring in three additional locations. This aggressive restructuring is intended to achieve “sustainable growth,” according to Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, but it has been met with considerable resistance.
The company’s stock price plummeted by 33% following the announcement, and employees at Ubisoft Halifax are considering strike action. This internal turmoil highlights the challenges of navigating a rapidly changing gaming landscape and the potential consequences of drastic organizational changes.
The Prince of Persia’s Plight: A Remake Lost in Time
The cancellation of the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake is particularly disheartening for fans. The original Sands of Time was a landmark title, selling millions of copies and spawning multiple sequels. The remake was intended to revitalize the franchise, but it has now been indefinitely shelved, leaving many wondering if the Prince will ever return.
The Ubisoft-Tencent Partnership: A New Era?
The partnership with Tencent, through the Vantage initiative, is a key factor driving these changes. Tencent is taking a significant stake in Ubisoft, and the collaboration is expected to influence the future direction of the Assassin’s Creed series. While the specifics of this influence remain unclear, it’s evident that Ubisoft is adapting to a new reality, one where external investment and strategic partnerships are crucial for survival.
What Does This Imply for the Future of Ubisoft and its Franchises?
The recent events at Ubisoft signal a period of uncertainty. The company is attempting to streamline its operations and focus on its core franchises, but the cost of this restructuring is significant. The cancellation of promising projects like Assassin’s Creed Legacy and the Prince of Persia Remake raises concerns about Ubisoft’s ability to innovate and deliver on its promises.
The success of the Ubisoft-Tencent partnership will be critical in determining the company’s future. Tencent’s expertise in mobile gaming and its vast resources could provide Ubisoft with the support it needs to navigate the challenges ahead. However, it also raises questions about creative control and the potential for a shift in the company’s identity.
Did you know?
Assassin’s Creed originated from concepts within the Prince of Persia series. Ubisoft’s Prince of Persia: Assassin served as a foundational stepping stone for the creation of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.
FAQ
Q: What happened to the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake?
A: It was cancelled as part of Ubisoft’s restructuring plans.
Q: What was Assassin’s Creed Legacy?
A: It was a planned standalone multiplayer Assassin’s Creed game set in feudal Japan.
Q: What is the Ubisoft-Tencent partnership?
A: It’s a strategic investment by Tencent in Ubisoft, aimed at supporting the company’s growth and development.
Q: Will Ubisoft continue to make Assassin’s Creed games?
A: Yes, but the future direction of the series may be influenced by the partnership with Tencent.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Ubisoft’s official announcements for the latest updates on their upcoming projects and restructuring plans.
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