Ubisoft is going through a difficult period, marked by layoffs and the lack of success of its recent releases, which has led the company to a crossroads. In this context, the next game in the Assassin’s Creed saga, titled Shadows, is presented as its most ambitious development to date and crucial for its future stability, with a release scheduled for March 20, 2024.
Ubisoft, setting its sights on Saudi Arabia
However, Ubisoft’s strategy is not limited solely to Shadows. According to reports, the company has signed an agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia to finance a downloadable content (DLC) for Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which has sparked controversy due to the fund’s reputation for its human rights record. The PIF has made significant investments in the video game industry, including stakes in Nintendo, EA, and Take-Two Interactive.
Despite the rumors about financial backing for the Mirage DLC, Ubisoft has not officially confirmed this information. In statements to Eurogamer UK, a company spokesperson indicated that their main focus is on the development of Shadows. This reveals a possible duality in Ubisoft’s attention, as it seems to be exploring its legacy while facing an uncertain future.
The situation has also led Ubisoft to consider sale options and partnerships with foreign investors, including the Chinese giant Tencent. This scenario has placed the company in the eye of the storm within the industry, at a time when collaboration with the PIF remains in a state of ambiguity, awaiting more clarity. Meanwhile, Shadows promises not only an innovative setting but also the addition of the Animus Hub, a system that will connect past and future stories, offering players free content, exclusive events, and new narratives to expand the Assassin’s Creed universe.
