Ubisoft Delays Assassin’s Creed Shadows Again, Now Set for March 20 Release
Ubisoft, France’s largest video game developer, has announced another delay for the release of its highly anticipated game, Ubisoft Delays Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Initially slated for a February 14 launch, the game is now scheduled to hit the market on March 20, the company confirmed on Thursday. This marks the second postponement for the latest installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, following a prior delay announced last September.
Aiming for Perfection: Why the Delay?
Ubisoft stated that the additional month of development time will enable the team to integrate valuable player feedback gathered over the past three months. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering the best possible gaming experience for its fans.
In a statement, Ubisoft emphasized its dedication to creating optimal launch conditions, citing the "increasingly positive" reception from the Assassin’s Creed community as a key motivator for the extended timeline. The development team aims to ensure that Assassin’s Creed Shadows exceeds expectations and cements its place as a standout entry in the blockbuster franchise.
A Rocky Road: Ubisoft’s Struggles with Delays and Performance
Ubisoft has faced significant challenges in recent years, including project delays and underwhelming performance from key titles. One notable disappointment was the release of Star Wars Outlaws in August last year, which fell short of sales expectations. The underperformance of such titles, combined with postponed releases, has negatively impacted the company’s financial outlook. In fact, Ubisoft’s shares lost half their value over the course of 2024, reflecting investor concerns about the company’s trajectory.
Strategic Overhaul: Cost Reductions and New Directions
In light of these difficulties, Ubisoft has initiated a strategic and execution review to stabilize its operations and deliver greater value for stakeholders. As part of this initiative, the company has engaged advisors to explore transformational options, which could include restructuring or pivoting its business model.
Ubisoft also announced plans to implement significant cost-cutting measures, targeting a reduction of over EUR 200 million ($205.90 million or roughly Rs. 1,767 crore) in its fixed cost base by FY2025-26 compared to FY2022-23. These reductions will be achieved through selective investment strategies and streamlined operations.
Financial Forecast: A Mixed Outlook
The company’s financial performance continues to reflect its ongoing challenges. Ubisoft projects third-quarter net bookings of approximately EUR 300 million (roughly Rs. 2,650 crore), falling short of earlier expectations. This revised forecast is attributed to lower-than-anticipated holiday sales, particularly for Star Wars Outlaws, as well as the discontinuation of its multiplayer shooter XDefiant.
Back in October, Ubisoft had estimated net bookings for the same quarter to drop by 39% year-on-year, amounting to around EUR 380 million (roughly Rs. 3,356 crore). The updated projection underscores the impact of declining sales and project cancellations on the company’s bottom line.
The Road Ahead for Ubisoft and Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Despite its challenges, Ubisoft remains committed to regaining its foothold in the gaming industry. With Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the company aims to restore confidence among players and investors alike. The extended development timeline reflects Ubisoft’s intention to prioritize quality over speed, ensuring a polished and engaging experience for fans of the iconic franchise.
As Ubisoft continues to navigate its strategic transformation and implement cost-saving measures, the upcoming release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows will serve as a critical test of its ability to deliver on its promises. Fans eagerly await March 20, hoping this delay will result in a game that lives up to its legacy.