Ubisoft Embraces Delays to Refocus on Quality After Assassin’s Creed Shadows Success
Ubisoft has announced a strategic delay of several major game releases originally scheduled for the current financial year, extending its focus on quality and development time following the positive reception of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Strategic Shift After Recent Success
“After a thorough review of its pipeline that took place from October to December, the Group decided to provide additional development time to some of its biggest productions in order to create the best conditions for success,” Ubisoft stated in its latest earnings report. “This decision has already been beneficial to the quality of Assassin's Creed Shadows.”
As a result, the company expects significant financial and content growth in fiscal years 2026–27 and 2027–28, as opposed to the current period ending in April 2026.
Delays Likely to Impact Key Franchises
While Ubisoft did not confirm which specific titles are affected, it is widely speculated that the delay will impact the upcoming Splinter Cell remake, originally rumored for a 2026 launch, and Assassin’s Creed Hexe, first revealed in 2022 and still without an official release window.
Other potential delays may include the rumored new installment of the Ghost Recon franchise, Far Cry 7, and a reported extraction shooter project, all of which were previously believed to be targeting launches within the next two years.
Tencent Partnership and Structural Reforms
This restructuring follows a broader corporate shift at Ubisoft. The company recently announced the creation of a new development subsidiary in partnership with Tencent, which will oversee its three most valuable intellectual properties: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six. Tencent is contributing over $1 billion to the joint venture.
Meanwhile, Ubisoft’s core organization is undergoing cost-reduction initiatives and internal restructuring aimed at improving operational efficiency.
Confirmed Releases Remain on Track
Despite the broader delays, Ubisoft confirmed that some upcoming titles remain on schedule. These include Anno 117: Pax Romana, set for release in 2025, and the remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, scheduled for 2026. Both projects are expected to launch within the current financial year.
Additionally, Ubisoft noted that further titles intended for release in this period "will be announced at a later stage."
Uncertainty Around Unannounced Projects
A number of unconfirmed projects remain in question. These include a rumored remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, a standalone multiplayer Assassin’s Creed game, and a battle royale project with gameplay reportedly similar to Apex Legends. Given the company’s current cost-cutting measures and emphasis on long-term planning, the future of these projects remains uncertain.
A Focus on Long-Term Stability
Ubisoft’s current strategy reflects a broader industry trend toward prioritizing quality over speed. With lessons learned from recent setbacks and the success of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the company appears committed to regaining player trust and strengthening its flagship franchises through disciplined production cycles.