Asger Risom
Ubisoft has spent the past year restructuring its business, slimming its workforce and reorganizing its biggest franchises.
Ubisoft has spent the past year restructuring its business, slimming its workforce and reorganizing its biggest franchises. Now, with a major investment from Tencent and a deeper push into generative AI, the publisher says its transformation is only beginning.
Vantage Takes Over
Ubisoft confirmed that Tencent has finalized its investment in Vantage Studios, the new internal entity created to oversee Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry and Rainbow Six. The Chinese company acquired 26.32% of Vantage’s economic shares, valuing the unit at €3.8 billion and bringing €1.16 billion into Ubisoft’s accounts.
Operational since October 1, Vantage is structured as a network of smaller “creative houses,” each with autonomy over production plans. Led by Christophe Derennes and Charlie Guillemot, the studio group is intended to accelerate development and turn the company’s flagship series into franchises capable of generating “one billion euros annually,” according to Ubisoft.
CEO Yves Guillemot called the investment a “milestone” for the company’s long-term overhaul.
Cutting Costs Again
Ubisoft’s latest financial report reiterates that its cost-cutting program is “on track,” with 1,500 employees departing in the last 12 months. The company notes that the figure includes both layoffs and exits through a “voluntary career transition program,” particularly in Nordic studios.
The publisher also outlined new targets: beginning in the 2026–2027 fiscal year, it plans to reduce fixed costs by at least €100 million compared with 2024–2025. Ubisoft has not detailed which teams or operations will be affected, but says the timeline remains on schedule.
AI Everywhere
Guillemot placed special emphasis on generative AI during the results presentation, comparing its impact to the transition to 3D graphics. He said AI is already integrated across every Ubisoft team, from development tools to player-facing features.
The company highlighted ongoing work on NEO NPCs, experimental AI-driven characters first teased in 2023. Ubisoft plans to share more details with players before the end of the year.
Not all of this technological shift has been welcomed. Anno 117: Pax Romana drew criticism earlier this year after it was disclosed that AI-generated elements were used during production — a reminder that Ubisoft’s pursuit of efficiency may clash with player expectations.
A Tighter Future
The combination of Tencent funding and widespread AI adoption signals where Ubisoft is headed: leaner teams, more automated workflows and stricter financial discipline. But after 1,500 departures and more reductions ahead, the human cost of the company’s transformation remains considerable.
Sources: Ubisoft, Gamepressure
