Game-making company Ubisoft has announced that it has hired advisors to review transformational capitalistic and strategic options. This new approach is coming off a previous announcement where the company revealed that its founding family was looking at a potential buyout.
In anticipation of the potential buyout, the company has decided to engage the services of leading advisors to look into several capitalistic and strategic options, according to a statement on January 9. The game-making company also revealed a slight delay in its latest title, ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows.’
Ubisoft hires advisors in a bid to pursue strategic options
In its statement, Ubisoft highlighted that the hiring was necessary in order to acquire the best value for its stakeholders. The company had previously revealed that the Guillemot family and Chinese firm Tencent Holdings discussed the possibility of a takeover. After the announcement, the company’s shares saw a 30% rise.
In a statement by Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, the company still had the assets to generate income in various ways. In addition, Ubisoft said that the process will be overseen by independent members of its Board of Directors. The company also said it would follow due process by informing the market once the process is completed.
The CEO highlighted several areas that could change over the next few months. “We have taken decisive steps to reshape the Group to deliver best-in-class player experiences, enhance operational efficiency, and maximize value creation,” he said. The company also said it will take a more prudent approach to spending, with investments also expected to be selective.
The company is going to reduce its fixed cost base by $200 million, noting that the closure of three studios, and XDefiant’s discontinuation was in line with its cost reduction measures. The company laid off 45 employees across its United States outlets, noting via a spokesperson that it was to cut costs.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launch delayed
In other news, Ubisoft has announced a slight delay involving its game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows. According to a statement from September, the game, earmarked for launch in November 2024, was shifted to February 2025. However, a new announcement had put the launch date on March 20, 2025.
The company said the move was necessary so the developers would be able to incorporate features like gameplay reviews and refine the game. The president of the franchise, Marc-Alexis Cote, also shared a statement concerning the game, noting that they receive feedback from players every week.
Cote mentioned that the developers have put considerable effort into making the game, and the next few weeks will be used to improve user experience. He also noted that the company is still committed to making immersive experiences via contributions from the players to the developers.