In the recent string of months, many are to believe Ubisoft is in dire trouble thanks to the performance of its releases from 2024. From the official closure announced for xDefiant to the underwhelming reception of Star Wars Outlaws, reports did circulate on the uncertainty of the publisher. It was understood a potential buyout from Tencent is a possibility if not addressed effectively by its executives.
Although other reports did indicate team closures like for Ubisoft Montpellier, it was later confirmed that the team is moving on to new projects. In the vein of Assassin’s Creed, the IP is said to have nearly a dozen titles underway after its upcoming new release. And even that is still awaited after revealing a second delay for the game now fixed on March 2025 later this year.
Amid that, Ubisoft is now taking actions to reduce its costs and almost 200 jobs were taken from its latest wave of layoffs. According to Eurogamer, the publisher has reduced staffing at studios in Düsseldorf, Stockholm, Newcastle. What’s more, the move did properly shut down one team based in Leamington with a total of 185 jobs now removed from Ubisoft’s roster.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to prioritise projects and reduce costs that ensure long-term stability at Ubisoft, we have announced targeted restructurings at Ubisoft Düsseldorf, Ubisoft Stockholm and Ubisoft Reflections and the permanent closure of Ubisoft Leamington site,” the outlet received in a statement from a Ubisoft spokesperson.
“Unfortunately, this should impact 185 employees overall. We are deeply grateful for their contributions and are committed to supporting them through this transition.” Among the big budget disappointments, titles like Skull and Bones proves to be one of the reasons for Ubisoft’s latest decision. While the firm was chasing after quadruple A, it has proven to be more damaging than rewarding.
Are you surprised by this recent firing string by Ubisoft?
Source: Eurogamer
