Ubisoft Cancels Six Games Including Prince of Persia

In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the gaming community, Ubisoft has announced the cancellation of six video games, including the highly anticipated Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time remake. This decision is part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at achieving sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive market.

Major Reset for Ubisoft

Ubisoft, a French developer and publisher known for popular franchises such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Just Dance, has taken a decisive step to reshape its operations. Alongside the cancellation of six games, the company has closed two studios and delayed seven titles. Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot stated that these measures are necessary to create the conditions for a return to sustainable growth.

Cancelled Titles and Studio Closures

Among the cancelled games is the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time remake, which was eagerly awaited by fans. Ubisoft has not specified the other titles that have been discontinued, but it includes four unannounced games, three of which are based on new intellectual property (IP), and a mobile game. The company has also closed its studios in Stockholm, Sweden, and Halifax, Canada. These studios were working on a new IP and mobile titles for Assassin's Creed, respectively.

Market Pressures and Rising Costs

The decision comes at a time when the gaming industry is facing significant challenges. Rising development costs and a highly competitive market for triple-A games have made it increasingly difficult for studios to create successful brands. Guillemot acknowledged these challenges, stating that the triple-A industry has become more selective and competitive.

Focus on Existing Franchises

As part of its restructuring, Ubisoft will now focus on developing open world adventure games and live service games. The company believes that maintaining scale by investing in existing big franchises such as Assassin's Creed and Rainbow Six is less risky than launching entirely new IPs. Gaming industry analyst Piers Harding-Rolls noted that this approach reflects Ubisoft's strategy to mitigate risk and focus on proven titles.

Vantage Studios and Future Plans

Ubisoft's subsidiary, Vantage Studios, which was created after a €1.25 billion investment from Chinese tech giant Tencent, will aim to turn Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six into annual billionaire brands. This move underscores Ubisoft's commitment to leveraging its existing franchises to drive future growth.

Impact on Employees and Shareholders

The restructuring has not only affected game development but also employees and shareholders. Ubisoft's shares plunged by 33% following the announcement, reflecting the market's reaction to the company's changes. Guillemot expressed that while these decisions are difficult, they are necessary for building a more focused, efficient, and sustainable organization over the long term.

Previous Restructuring Efforts

This is not the first time Ubisoft has undergone restructuring. In 2025, the company cut 185 jobs across Europe, closed its office in Leamington, and restructured another in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. These previous efforts highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the gaming industry and the need for companies to adapt to changing market conditions.

Fan Reactions and Industry Insights

The cancellation of the Prince of Persia remake has left many fans puzzled, especially given the popularity of the original game, which sold millions of copies in 2003. The decision to halt development on this and other games indicates a shift in Ubisoft's strategy, focusing on more profitable and less risky ventures.

Future of Game Development

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, companies like Ubisoft are likely to face more challenges and opportunities. The shift towards live service games and the emphasis on existing franchises may set a new trend for the industry. However, the success of this strategy remains to be seen, and only time will tell if Ubisoft's major reset will lead to the sustainable growth it seeks.

Conclusion

Ubisoft's decision to cancel six games, close studios, and delay titles is a significant move that reflects the challenges and opportunities in the gaming industry. As the company focuses on existing franchises and live service games, it aims to navigate the competitive landscape and achieve long-term success. The gaming community and industry analysts will be closely watching to see how these changes unfold and impact the future of game development.