Ubisoft, the renowned French video game giant, is facing another challenging chapter as it undertakes significant global layoffs. The company has announced a reduction of 185 jobs, affecting employees in the UK, Germany, and Sweden.
These changes include downsizing at its Newcastle-based Ubisoft Reflections, as well as the Düsseldorf and Stockholm offices. In addition, Ubisoft has confirmed the closure of its Leamington Spa studio in the UK.
Formerly known as FreeStyleGames, this studio gained recognition for its work on the DJ Hero series while under Activision’s ownership. Ubisoft acquired the studio in 2017, but in recent years, it has transitioned into a support role.
While a few staff members from Leamington Spa have been retained on remote contracts, the majority of employees have been made redundant, highlighting the scale of the layoffs.
Ubisoft’s statement emphasized that these measures are part of its “ongoing efforts to prioritize projects and reduce costs” to ensure long-term stability. The company expressed gratitude for the contributions of the affected employees, acknowledging their role in its success over the years.
This development comes as Ubisoft continues to grapple with various challenges, including backlash against its major franchises, speculation about its financial stability, and broader shifts in the gaming industry worldwide. The layoffs and studio closures are part of a restructuring strategy aimed at navigating these challenges.
These closures underscore a period of transition for Ubisoft as it seeks to streamline operations and adapt to the evolving gaming landscape.
