The Ubisoft board has reportedly launched an investigation into the company amid the recent Assassin’s Creed Shadows delay. The combination of the delay and the “soft” sales for Star Wars Outlaws has reportedly led to this investigation.
Not much is known about the investigation. However, the report suggests that all current and upcoming Ubisoft projects will be put under the spotlight as the investigation begins. It is unclear whether the board believes there are ongoing issues at the company or perhaps they are losing trust in the workings at Ubisoft. The internal statement says that Ubisoft needs greater efficiency when delighting its players – this is kind of a clear indication of what the board wants.
“In light of recent challenges, we acknowledge the need for greater efficiency while delighting players. As a result, beyond the first important short-term actions undertaken, the Executive Committee, under the supervision of the Board of Directors, is launching a review aimed at further improving our execution, notably in this player-centric approach, and accelerating our strategic path towards a higher performing model to the benefit of our stakeholders and shareholders.”
“Short-term actions” might relate to the recent move to Steam. Ubisoft announced that Star Wars Outlaws would be released on Steam in November and Assassin’s Creed Shadows next year too. Perhaps the board are trying to find new ways to bring in money at the studio.
The report claims that many Ubisoft employees saw this coming. Some of them said “The writing was on the wall” as the investigation was announced. This year, Ubisoft launched three major games – Skull and Bones, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown and Star Wars Outlaws. Soon after the release of each one, financial reports claimed each game underperformed.
Source: Insider Gaming
