In a bold move to streamline its operations and reduce costs, Ubisoft, France’s largest video game developer, has announced the closure of its Leamington studio in the UK and a significant restructuring of its teams in Düsseldorf, Stockholm, and Reflections. The changes are expected to impact 185 employees, the company confirmed on Tuesday, following earlier media reports.
The decision is part of Ubisoft’s broader strategy to prioritize key projects and adapt to an increasingly competitive gaming market. The company has faced significant challenges, including repeated delays and underwhelming performance of major titles. Notably, Star Wars Outlaws, launched in August last year, fell short of sales expectations despite high anticipation.
In a LinkedIn post, Ubisoft Leamington emphasized that the restructuring is aimed at ensuring the company can “deliver the best experiences to players” in today’s fiercely competitive gaming landscape.
This announcement follows a series of recent closures and downsizing initiatives. In December, Ubisoft shuttered its San Francisco and Osaka studios while scaling back operations in Sydney, leading to the loss of 143 jobs in San Francisco and potentially 134 positions in Osaka and Sydney.
The company has also enlisted advisors to explore strategic transformations aimed at maximizing value for stakeholders, signaling potential further shifts in its operational structure.
Amid these changes, Ubisoft is preparing for the highly anticipated release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the latest installment in its flagship franchise. Set to launch on March 20, the game is a cornerstone of Ubisoft’s efforts to regain momentum and capture player interest.
As Ubisoft navigates this period of transition, the industry will closely watch how these measures impact its long-term stability and market position.
