Has Ubisoft’s Timing with Assassin’s Creed Shadows Missed the Mark? Company Seeks Major Investors for Franchise Spin-Offs

Ubisoft seems to be on the hunt for financial partners to support a fresh business initiative that will leverage some of its most renowned franchises, like Assassin’s Creed. This insight stems from a Bloomberg report, drawing from information provided by sources acquainted with the situation.

Reportedly, the French gaming powerhouse is anticipating bids for this venture by the end of the month. These proposals would involve a minority stake in the entity, and one of the rumored players expressing interest is Tencent. Tencent already holds a 9.99% stake in Ubisoft and has been frequently mentioned in discussions about Ubisoft’s future.

The article, authored by Dong Cao, Vinicy Chan, and Benoit Berthelot from Bloomberg, suggests Ubisoft might be aiming for a valuation for this spin-off venture that surpasses that of its main company. They caution, however, that negotiations are ongoing, and no conclusive decisions have been made.

Upon reaching out for comment, Bloomberg received Ubisoft’s quarterly financial statement. Within, a passage reads, “a review of various transformational strategic and capitalistic options is ongoing to help extract the best value from Ubisoft’s assets and franchises for all stakeholders.” Tencent, when contacted by Bloomberg for their input, chose not to comment.

If this report holds true, and given Bloomberg’s strong reputation for reliability especially on these topics, it represents a daring strategy by Ubisoft. By relocating its top-tier franchises into a new entity, the company might be shaving off its crown jewels and relocating them to an attractive package that could entice other companies looking to invest.

Additionally, this maneuver could effectively distance Ubisoft’s prized intellectual properties from the company’s turbulent past. Recently, earlier this month, there were court proceedings involving three former Ubisoft executives over allegations of psychological and sexual harassment towards employees. The trial is adjourned until June. Establishing a new business entity could possibly shield the desirable IP from such negative associations, thus enhancing their appeal to investors.

It also raises curiosity about how Assassin’s Creed: Shadows might influence these financial endeavors. A game that, undeniably, will play a crucial role in either propelling Ubisoft towards renewed success or, conversely, contributing to its decline, depending on how well it’s received both critically and commercially. Considering Assassin’s Creed is expected to be a part of this new venture, the success of this particular game could be more critical than ever.

With the launch of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows slated for March 20, it won’t be long before we see how the game performs and its subsequent effect on Ubisoft as a whole in the months to follow.