Ubisoft has revealed more layoffs within its ranks, adding to the wave of job cuts sweeping through the gaming industry.
Last year, nearly 10,000 individuals lost their jobs as the industry underwent significant shifts in direction. With many companies turning to live service games to generate revenue, Ubisoft has been no exception. Despite its involvement in this trend, the company has found itself unable to prevent further layoffs.
These layoffs, affecting both the Global Publishing and Asia-Pacific teams, highlight the ongoing challenges faced by even the most prominent companies in the industry. Despite their popularity and successful releases, studios like Insomniac Games have not been immune to layoffs, illustrating the volatile nature of the gaming market.
Ubisoft’s decision to reduce its workforce comes after previous rounds of layoffs in 2023, raising concerns among industry professionals and fans alike. The uncertainty surrounding the fate of these former employees underscores the tough realities of the gaming industry.
While some attribute these layoffs to the growing emphasis on live service games, others see it as a consequence of corporate decisions prioritizing profits over employee well-being. As the debate continues, Ubisoft remains focused on its upcoming releases, including highly anticipated titles like Star Wars Outlaws and the next installment in the Assassin’s Creed series.
Despite the challenges posed by these layoffs, Ubisoft’s release schedule remains unaffected, with several projects, including The Division Heartland and XDefiant, progressing as planned. However, industry voices like Baldur’s Gate 3 director Swen Vincke emphasize the importance of valuing industry expertise and fostering a supportive work environment amidst corporate restructuring.