Ubisoft’s financial struggles and strategic decisions have come into sharp focus as recent reports shed light on the company’s uncertain future and its efforts to regain stability. Following a difficult 2024, which saw several major titles fail to meet expectations, the gaming giant is now exploring strategic collaborations, including a potential venture with Tencent.
At the same time, Ubisoft is doubling down on its core franchises, such as Assassin’s Creed, to reinvigorate its portfolio and appeal to its global audience. These moves highlight the company’s attempts to navigate a highly competitive market while addressing internal and external pressures.
Financial decline and strategic moves
In 2024, Ubisoft experienced significant financial setbacks, including a delay of ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows,’ which missed the critical holiday season. Other titles, such as Star Wars Outlaws, XDefiant, and Skull And Bones, as well as Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, failed to meet expectations. Consequently, Ubisoft’s share price dropped to its lowest point in nearly 11 years.
Reports suggest that Ubisoft’s founding Guillemot family is considering a partnership with Tencent to form a new subsidiary. Together, the two entities control 29.6% of Ubisoft’s voting rights. This potential venture aims to enhance Ubisoft’s value and allow Tencent greater control over select intellectual properties. Discussions are ongoing, with no final decisions yet confirmed. This proposal follows earlier speculation about a possible buyout involving Tencent in October 2024.
The potential partnership would see Tencent expanding its gaming presence outside China, while Ubisoft navigates calls for leadership changes. Minority investor AJ Investments has previously urged CEO Yves Guillemot to step down.
Ubisoft to be dismantled in 2025, IP's sold off.
Industry financial analyst predicts that to ward off hostile takeover, Ubisoft will be forced to go private and sell of valuable assets like Rainbow Six Siege and Assassin's Creed.
Source: Tweaktown pic.twitter.com/qAJy4UEEfL
— Grummz (@Grummz) December 8, 2024
Assassin’s Creed franchise developments
As part of its broader plans, Ubisoft is reportedly developing multiple Assassin’s Creed titles. Among these is a remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, a fan-favorite entry in the series. Unlike a simple visual upgrade, the remake is expected to feature overhauled gameplay mechanics and elements, signaling a significant revamp. While not officially announced, previous rumors indicated a potential release in November 2025.
Another Assassin’s Creed project, codenamed Invictus, is described as a multiplayer game similar to Fall Guys. It was initially planned for a release around the same time as the Black Flag remake. However, delays to Assassin’s Creed Shadows may impact the timeline for these titles.
Upcoming releases and Nintendo Switch 2 support
Assassin’s Creed Shadows, slated for release on March 20, 2025, remains a central focus for Ubisoft. Meanwhile, leaks indicate that the company has ambitious plans for Nintendo’s anticipated Switch 2 console. Ubisoft is reportedly developing over half a dozen titles for the platform, including ports of The Division, Rainbow Six Siege, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage. A Mario + Rabbids collection is also under discussion, although it is unclear whether it will feature new content.
Ubisoft’s support for Nintendo consoles is not new. The company played a key role during the original Switch’s launch in 2017, and similar collaboration is expected for the Switch 2. Leaked titles for the console also include Red Dead Redemption 2 and Tekken 8.
These developments come as Ubisoft faces questions about its long-term strategy and market position. The success of its forthcoming projects, including the Black Flag remake and Assassin’s Creed Shadows, will likely determine its ability to rebound from recent challenges. Simultaneously, the proposed venture with Tencent reflects efforts to stabilize the company and explore new opportunities in a competitive gaming landscape.
As deliberations continue, Ubisoft’s decisions in the coming months will shape its trajectory in the gaming industry. Whether through reinvigorated franchises or strategic partnerships, the company’s focus on innovation and adaptation remains critical to its future.
