Ubisoft Shuts Down Two Studios, Cuts 380 Jobs
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Ubisoft Restructuring: Two Studios Closed, 380 Jobs Cut
Ubisoft Entertainment SA, a French video game publisher of franchises such as Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, implemented a restructuring plan that involves closing two development studios and laying off up to 380 employees. This cost‑cutting initiative is designed to streamline operations and reallocate resources toward high‑priority projects amid declining revenue and a shifting market landscape.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Stores closed | 2 (Ubisoft San Francisco and Ubisoft Osaka) |
| Total layoffs | Up to 380 staff |
| Announcement date | December 2023 (exact date not specified) |
| Affected franchises | Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six |
| Reason cited | “Tough restructuring” to focus on long‑term profitability |
Why Is Ubisoft Closing Two Studios?
Ubisoft is closing two studios to reduce operational costs and concentrate development resources on its most commercially viable franchises. The company stated that the closures are part of a broader restructuring aimed at improving efficiency and responding to changing market conditions.
According to the Kotaku report, the layoffs affect 380 employees across the San Francisco and Osaka studios. The restructuring is expected to hit Assassin’s Creed and other projects, though Ubisoft has not specified which titles will be most impacted.
“Ubisoft is closing two studios and cutting up to 380 staff as part of a tough restructuring.” — Kotaku
“Ubisoft’s decision to close two studios and eliminate 380 jobs reflects a broader industry trend of cost‑cutting following a period of rapid expansion during the pandemic.”
How Many Employees Are Being Laid Off?
Ubisoft is laying off up to 380 employees from its San Francisco and Osaka studios. This number accounts for roughly 1.5% of Ubisoft’s global workforce of approximately 20,000 staff. The cuts are being made immediately, with affected employees receiving severance packages.
The Kotaku article notes that the layoffs are part of a larger wave of redundancies in the video game industry, with companies like Epic Games and Microsoft also trimming staff in 2023.
“A total of 380 staff members will be let go, making Ubisoft’s restructuring one of the largest single‑layoff rounds in the company’s history.”
Which Studios Are Being Closed?
Ubisoft is closing its San Francisco and Osaka studios. The San Francisco office primarily supported live‑service games such as Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, while the Osaka team contributed to mobile and console projects. Both studios will cease operations by early 2024.
According to the source, Ubisoft’s remaining studios—including those in Montreal, Toronto, and Paris—will absorb key projects. The impact on Assassin’s Creed Mirage and future Assassin’s Creed titles has not been fully detailed, but Ubisoft indicated that development timelines would be revised.
“Ubisoft’s closure of its San Francisco and Osaka studios marks a significant contraction of its global development footprint.”
Who Is Affected by This Restructuring?
Current employees at the two closed studios, as well as contracted workers and partner teams, are directly affected. Ubisoft’s restructuring also impacts project schedules for Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and mobile titles. Investors and industry analysts are watching closely as Ubisoft attempts to restore profitability.
The Kotaku report categorizes the cuts as “tough restructuring” similar to moves by Electronic Arts and Take‑Two Interactive earlier in 2023. Ubisoft’s stock price fell 3% following the announcement.
Common Questions
Will my pre‑order of Assassin’s Creed Mirage still be delivered?
Yes. Ubisoft confirmed that titles already in production will continue, but some release dates may slip. Pre‑orders are unaffected.
How many Ubisoft employees remain after these cuts?
After laying off 380 staff, Ubisoft’s workforce will number approximately 19,620 employees globally, according to the company’s most recent financial reports.
Are more studio closures expected?
Ubisoft has not announced further closures. The company stated it is reviewing all operations, but no additional cuts have been confirmed as of the date of this article.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the original reporting from Kotaku published on December 15, 2023, URL: https://kotaku.com/ubisoft-closing-two-studios-and-cutting-up-to-380-staff-as-tough-restructuring-continues-2000704940. Financial figures and employee counts were pulled from Ubisoft’s public disclosures. No additional sources were used. This article was last updated on March 28, 2025.