Ubisoft, the French videogame publisher, is heavily relying on the success of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” to turn its financial fortunes around. The latest installment in the best-selling franchise faces criticism for its diverse characters and story, which has sparked controversy in the US following President Donald Trump’s election.
The game, launching this Thursday, marks a return to Ubisoft’s core strength after a string of high-profile flops. Its success will be crucial in repairing the company’s financial position, which took a 40% hit last year.
Featuring two protagonists – Naoe, a stealthy female assassin, and Yasuke, an African samurai – the game has refined parkour and stealth mechanics to enhance the dual-character system. However, its story is said to be disappointing by some, with critics calling for more polish.
Analysts say that while controversy over diversity efforts may hinder the game’s appeal in certain segments of the market, it could actually work in Ubisoft’s favor. As North America accounts for over 53% of Ubisoft’s videogame bookings, and games with diverse characters have seen success before, the company is optimistic about its prospects.
If “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” performs well, it could be a turning point for Ubisoft, potentially repairing its financial woes and restoring confidence in its franchise.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/technology/ubisoft-faces-make-or-break-moment-with-assassins-creed-shadows-2025-03-19