Ubisoft Cancels Six Video Games, Including Prince of Persia Remake
In a significant shift, Ubisoft has announced the cancellation of six video games, most notably including the highly anticipated remake of *Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time*. This decision reflects a broader restructuring initiative aimed at fostering sustainable growth amid increasing challenges in the gaming industry.
The cancellations come at a time when the gaming landscape is heavily leaning towards remakes and remasters, putting Ubisoft’s choice to halt a beloved franchise’s revival in the spotlight. As the company works to streamline its operations, many fans are left questioning the rationale behind this move.
Key Developments
- Ubisoft has canceled six games, including the *Prince of Persia* remake.
- The company closed two studios in Stockholm and Halifax and has delayed seven titles.
- Four of the canceled games were unannounced projects, including three based on new intellectual properties and one mobile game.
- Ubisoft’s shares fell 33% following the announcement.
- The restructuring aims to redirect focus towards established franchises like *Assassin’s Creed* and *Rainbow Six*.
Full Report
Restructuring for Sustainable Growth
Ubisoft’s CEO Yves Guillemot stressed that these measures are necessary for building a more efficient and focused organization. The restructuring represents the company’s second significant adjustment in recent years, following the announcement of job cuts across Europe in 2025. “While these decisions are difficult, they are necessary for us to build a more focused, efficient and sustainable organization over the long term,” Guillemot remarked.
Market Challenges
As the gaming market becomes increasingly competitive, development costs for triple-A titles have escalated, complicating the launch of new projects. Guillemot pointed out that the triple-A industry has turned more selective, requiring substantial investment with less guarantee of success for new franchises. This has led the company to prioritize established brands instead.
Focus on Proven Franchises
Gaming industry analyst Piers Harding-Rolls explained that by canceling several unannounced projects, Ubisoft is mitigating risk, opting to invest in its larger franchises, which include *Assassin’s Creed* and *Rainbow Six*. This approach aligns with current industry trends where remakes and sequels often dominate, especially when successful titles continue to generate revenue.
Future Direction
Going forward, Ubisoft plans to concentrate on developing open-world adventure and live service games. The firm has indicated that its subsidiary, Vantage Studios—backed by a significant investment from Tencent—will work to develop *Assassin’s Creed*, *Far Cry*, and *Rainbow Six* into annual billion-dollar brands.
Context & Previous Events
This announcement follows the earlier closure of Ubisoft Halifax, which was revealed at the same time a union was formed at the studio. The company’s previous restructuring effort in 2025 resulted in the loss of 185 jobs across Europe, including additional studio closures in the UK.
