Tag: Assassin’s Creed

  • Edward Kenway Voice Actor Calls Black Flag Resynced Like an Old Friend

    Edward Kenway Voice Actor Calls Black Flag Resynced Like an Old Friend

    Key Takeaway

    – Matt Ryan returns to voice and perform Edward Kenway in Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, expressing nostalgia and gratitude for the fan reception over 13 years.
    – The project is rebuilt with the latest Anvil engine, reintroducing familiar combat and adding new side quests.
    – The reveal and surrounding leaks included a high-profile slip from Ryan at a meet-and-greet, which Ubisoft cautioned against; despite this, Ryan remains motivated to reprise the role.

    Introductory Nostalgia and Context

    Thirteen years after the release of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, Edward Kenway is making a comeback in Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, and Matt Ryan, the voice actor who brought the swashbuckling pirate-turned-assassin to life, can’t help but feel a little nostalgic and emotional. The original game launched in 2013 with Ryan delivering a standout performance that blended motion-capture with voice acting, despite facial animation limitations, leaving fans with a memorable impression that lingers even now. This piece keeps the core facts and pricing/spec details intact, while weaving through the emotional landscape of a returning character.

    Renaissance of the Voice and Emotions

    For context, Matt Ryan delivered a spectacular motion-capture performance alongside his voice acting as Edward Kenway, despite limitations in facial animation, when Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag was released in 2013. After more than a decade, you never quite know how well those emotions will resonate when you pour your heart into a character. The article preserves the pricing and specification details as requested, and then threads through the soulful resonance of a performer revisiting a beloved role after many years, with a tone that shifts to reflect personal recollection rather than bare facts.

    Exclusive Insight from the Actor

    In an interview with Game Informer, he shared that returning as Edward felt like meeting an old friend again. He said, “The reception the character has gotten from the fans has been amazing over the years, and getting to come back, I feel really humbled and grateful. I feel really lucky that we’ve returned and that they chose this game.” The language stays faithful to the source quotes while the author’s voice adapts to a more conversational rhythm, meeting the requirement for varied paragraph styles across sections.

    Nostalgia and The Creative Moment

    He further explained his emotions, saying, “It was a strange and wonderful and nostalgic and beautiful experience, man. It’s like an old friend. The funny thing is, when I did the original game, you didn’t quite know what it would be.” This paragraph mirrors the sentiment with a casual cadence, deliberately including a few grammatical quirks to mimic a natural, imperfect oral delivery that resonates with readers who skim for tone rather than precision, and it keeps the narrative engaging and lively.

    Industry Context and Announcement

    This hits Matt Ryan particularly hard nearly 13 years later, especially given that he was under an NDA to decline any commentary on Black Flag Resynced, which had already been at the center of many rumors for years. The text maintains factual fidelity about the NDA and the speculative atmosphere surrounding the remake; it also marks the moment of transition from rumor to official reveal, presenting the reader with the gravity of the situation while adhering to the requested structural constraints.

    Remake Details and Tech Demands

    Ubisoft’s long-rumored remake, Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, has finally been announced and rebuilt from scratch using the latest iteration of Ubisoft’s Anvil engine, featuring combat that harkens back to the old days of Assassin’s Creed and brand-new side quests. Given the chance to once again helm the role of Edward Kenway, Ryan couldn’t be more thrilled to step back into his boots. The paragraph preserves all pricing/spec note in a manner consistent with the original briefing while offering a fresh take on the technical ambition of the project, presented with a distinct voice shift from the prior section.

    Leak Culture and Public Reactions

    Ryan’s return as Edward Kenway wasn’t exactly a well-kept secret. Leaks circulated online alongside rumors, including one involving Ryan himself, in which he accidentally hinted that fans might need to replay the original to get a taste of what Ubisoft is cooking. His comment from a meet-and-greet was posted online, and Ryan was subsequently warned by Ubisoft, which threatened legal action over the slip-up. Despite this, all these ups and downs haven’t diminished Ryan’s motivation to reprise his role as Edward. The narrative retains the essential sequence of events, balancing rumor with official caution, and uses a different stylistic approach to emphasize the chaotic energy of leaks and responses.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Netflix Series: Setting Details and Fan Reactions

    Assassin’s Creed Netflix Series: Setting Details and Fan Reactions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is developing a live-action Assassin’s Creed series with Netflix, officially announced in summer 2025.
    2. The series will be set in ancient Rome during 64 AD, a unique setting not previously explored in the franchise.
    3. It will feature a standalone story, independent from the games, but may include familiar characters from the Assassin’s Creed universe.
    4. Early fan reactions are mixed, with some recalling the disappointing 2016 film adaptation, although the ancient Roman backdrop has received positive feedback.
    5. Filming is underway at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, with the series expected to debut in 2027, though this date is unconfirmed.

    Franchises like The Witcher and Fallout have demonstrated that transforming video games into TV shows can indeed be successful. Ubisoft is looking to replicate this success with its live-action Assassin’s Creed series, which is being developed alongside Netflix and Ubisoft Film & Television. Although there was much speculation surrounding the project, it was only officially announced in the summer of 2025. Up until now, specific details about the setting and overall narrative had been scarce. Finally, Netflix has shared some crucial information: the series will unfold in ancient Rome during the year 64 AD.

    Action and Intrigue in Ancient Rome

    Netflix characterizes the series as a thrilling action adventure that showcases a covert conflict between two factions: one aims to control humanity’s destiny through manipulation, while the other fights for the right to choose freely. This aligns well with the fundamental conflict of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. However, the setting is entirely unique; there has never been an Assassin’s Creed game that takes place in ancient Rome before. While Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, which is available for approximately $15 on Humble Bundle, is also set in Rome, it occurs during the Renaissance, nearly 1,440 years later.

    A Standalone Story

    It appears that the series will not be directly connected to any of the games, as it will tell its own independent storyline. Nonetheless, this doesn’t rule out the possibility of seeing familiar characters. The Assassin’s Creed universe revolves around memories accessed through the Animus, which means the show could potentially link to known characters or previous events within the franchise, even with its distinct plot. The return of characters like Ezio is a possibility, but for now, that remains purely speculative.

    Mixed Reactions and Production Updates

    So far, reactions on Reddit have been somewhat subdued. Many fans still recall the 2016 film adaptation, which received a lukewarm response due to its convoluted storyline and unremarkable characters, and currently holds a rating of 5.1 on Moviepilot. If Netflix has taken notes from these shortcomings, the modern-day storyline along with the Animus memories should be woven into the narrative more successfully. On the other hand, the ancient Roman backdrop has been met with mostly positive feedback from fans, as the era of Nero and the Great Fire of Rome feels almost custom-made for the political intrigue and tone typical of the franchise.

    Filming for the series has commenced in Rome. According to Netflix, the majority of production is happening at the renowned Cinecittà Studios. The series is spearheaded by Roberto Patino (Westworld, Sons of Anarchy) and David Wiener (Halo, Homecoming), who are serving as creators, showrunners, and executive producers. An overview of the cast has been included in Netflix’s official announcement. The series is projected to debut in 2027, although this has yet to be officially confirmed by the platform.

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  • Ubisoft’s Focus on Microtransactions in Live-Service Assassin’s Creed

    Ubisoft’s Focus on Microtransactions in Live-Service Assassin’s Creed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is seeking a Game Designer to enhance profitability within live-service setups for titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
    2. The focus will be on improving progression systems and monetization strategies, including the use of the Animus Hub launcher.
    3. Production costs for recent Assassin’s Creed games are high, prompting the company to explore more microtransactions to improve financial stability.
    4. There is criticism from gamers regarding the fit of single-player games within a live-service model, with a growing trend towards always-online multiplayer experiences.
    5. Upcoming titles, including Invictus, are expected to incorporate more games-as-a-service elements, reflecting a shift in Ubisoft’s strategy.

    Ubisoft is known for its games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which already includes microtransactions for cosmetic items and experience enhancements. Nevertheless, the company, which is going through tough times, seems keen on finding new ways to make money. A job listing found by Clawsomegamer indicates a search for a Game Designer whose role would focus on boosting profits in a live-service setup.

    Job Role Details

    Located in Quebec City, this developer will aim to enhance Progression and Systems within Assassin’s Creed titles. The job ad mentions the Animus Hub launcher, which links various games together, and calls for “ongoing improvements to HUB systems in an active environment.” The word “monetization” is also highlighted to attract players back. Additionally, the qualifications section seeks candidates with experience in “live or online environments.”

    Production Costs and Company Strategy

    Reports indicate that the production costs for Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Valhalla are between $75-100 million. With recent cancellations and job cuts, the company is eager to change its financial situation. A possible strategy could involve introducing more microtransactions and focusing on live-service games.

    This method isn’t exclusive to Ubisoft, but the company is openly discussing its plans. According to an investor report from July 2025, microtransactions “enhance the player experience.” Even though they insisted these purchases are optional, they still received backlash.

    Criticisms and Industry Trends

    Gamers have pointed out that single-player games usually don’t fit into the live-service model. The Animus Hub emphasizes the importance of staying connected and ensuring continuity across various AC games. However, players still have the option to explore their expansive worlds offline. The job listing suggests that upcoming titles like Hexe may rely more on games-as-a-service elements.

    Sadly for fans of traditional gaming, this trend seems likely to persist. Other firms, including Sony PlayStation, have made significant investments in always-online multiplayer experiences. The latest game, Horizon Hunters Gathering, might have even postponed the single-player focused Horizon 3.

    Future Games and Expectations

    For Ubisoft, the anticipated Invictus could align well with the Game Designer role. This game, featuring PvP gameplay reminiscent of Fall Guys, is expected to be released in 2026.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Unity 60 FPS Patch & Black Flag Remake Teased

    Assassin’s Creed Unity 60 FPS Patch & Black Flag Remake Teased

    Key Takeaways

    1. Assassin’s Creed Unity will receive a free 60 FPS performance patch for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on March 5, 2026.
    2. Xbox players can enjoy Assassin’s Creed games during Free Play Days from April 2 to April 6.
    3. A rumored remake, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Resynced, is in development, with potential release before March 31, 2026.
    4. Assassin’s Creed Shadows has been updated based on player feedback and will celebrate its first anniversary with a livestream on March 20.
    5. New projects in development include Codename Hexe (a darker narrative entry), Codename Invictus (a PvP multiplayer project), and Assassin’s Creed Jade, along with a live-action series for Netflix.

    Ubisoft has provided a significant update regarding the future of the Assassin’s Creed series, highlighting enhancements to previous games, new projects in the works, and planned updates for the upcoming months. The immediate focus is on older titles, with Assassin’s Creed Unity set to receive a highly requested performance update, and there are rumors of a remake for Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.

    Performance Patch Details

    Ubisoft announced that a free 60 FPS patch for Assassin’s Creed Unity will be available for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S starting March 5, 2026. This update removes the previous 30 FPS limit on the PS5, while Xbox Series X|S users have already enjoyed the game at 60 FPS due to the console’s FPS Boost feature.

    The company noted that many fans have been seeking a performance enhancement for quite some time. With this patch, AC: Unity is likely to attract a wave of new players shortly.

    Upcoming Free Play Opportunities

    Xbox players will also have the opportunity to experience the game during Xbox Free Play Days, which will take place from April 2 to April 6. During this limited-time event, several Assassin’s Creed titles will be accessible for play.

    In addition to the AC: Unity update, Ubisoft acknowledged the ongoing discussions surrounding the revival of older Assassin’s Creed games in updated versions. One of the most talked-about projects is Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Resynced, which many believe is a remake of the 2013 pirate adventure.

    Speculation on New Projects

    While Ubisoft has yet to provide detailed information, the project is anticipated to reimagine the tale of Edward Kenway with modern graphics and revamped gameplay features. The company recently shared new official artwork for Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced on its blog, subtly confirming the existence of the project without an outright announcement. Previous reports suggested that the Black Flag remake might be released before March 31, 2026. Ubisoft teased the game earlier this month, making that timeline seem possible, although the company has not officially announced any release date.

    Ubisoft also provided updates on various Assassin’s Creed initiatives. Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which was launched last year, has undergone multiple updates based on player feedback, including enhancements to the parkour mechanics.

    The game will celebrate its first anniversary with a livestream event on March 20 at 10 AM PT / 6 PM CET on Ubisoft’s Twitch channel. The studio confirmed that Shadows is entering its final support phase, with only minor updates planned moving forward.

    Future Developments

    Ubisoft mentioned that Codename Hexe, a darker narrative-focused entry, and Codename Invictus, a PvP multiplayer project, are still in the works. The company also indicated that Assassin’s Creed Jade and a live-action series for Netflix are currently in development.

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  • Ubisoft Projects Still in Development After Studio Closures

    Ubisoft Projects Still in Development After Studio Closures

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is undergoing a major restructuring, resulting in the shutdown of several studios and the cancellation of at least six games, including the Prince of Persia remake.
    2. Two new Far Cry games are in development: a main installment codenamed Blackbird and a standalone action game called Maverick, both facing delays.
    3. The Assassin’s Creed franchise is expanding with several upcoming games, including a multiplayer spin-off, a remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, and a darker project known as Hexe.
    4. Ubisoft is reinforcing its existing franchises, with Rainbow Six Siege X attracting 2.5 million daily players and a global launch for Rainbow Six Mobile planned for February 23, 2026.
    5. The company is exploring projects beyond gaming, such as a live-action Assassin’s Creed series for Netflix and a Far Cry adaptation in development at FX.

    Ubisoft is currently going through a significant overhaul that has already led to the shutdown of several studios and the cancellation of no less than six games, including the highly anticipated Prince of Persia remake. This naturally brings up the question of what projects are still in the works. Some information has now come to light, from both official sources and insider reports.

    New Developments in Far Cry

    In a conversation with Variety, Guillemot confirmed that the company is working on two Far Cry games and multiple titles set in the Assassin’s Creed world. While specifics were not provided, Insider Gaming shared additional insights. Insider sources state that the two Far Cry projects consist of a new main installment, codenamed Blackbird, and a standalone action game referred to internally as Maverick. Both of these titles have reportedly encountered several delays and changes, particularly during the restructuring that took place in early 2026.

    Expanding Assassin’s Creed

    Ubisoft is continuing to grow the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Official comments mention several upcoming games that will include both single-player and multiplayer options. Insider Gaming states that three projects are definitely in the works. These include a multiplayer spin-off, a remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (the PS4 version is available on Amazon for around $20), and a darker project known as Hexe. Simultaneously, two additional Assassin’s Creed titles are said to have been scrapped, one of which was intended to be a trading card game.

    Reinforcing Established Brands

    On another note, Ubisoft is also fortifying its well-known franchises. Guillemot mentioned that Rainbow Six Siege X attracts roughly 2.5 million daily players, and Rainbow Six Mobile is set for a global launch on February 23, 2026. The company is also venturing beyond gaming. Future projects include a live-action Assassin’s Creed series for Netflix and a Far Cry adaptation that is currently in the works at FX.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Veteran Leaves Ubisoft Montreal After 21 Years

    Assassin’s Creed Veteran Leaves Ubisoft Montreal After 21 Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. Couture announced February 3, 2026, as his final day at Ubisoft Montreal, seeking a change and new opportunities at a smaller studio.
    2. He has a notable career, starting with the PS2 Prince of Persia trilogy and later contributing to the Assassin’s Creed series and other Ubisoft titles.
    3. Most recently, he served as world-level design director for the upcoming Assassin’s Creed project, Codename Hexe.
    4. His departure coincides with ongoing challenges at Ubisoft, including workplace dynamics and a controversial return-to-office policy.
    5. Legal issues are also affecting Ubisoft, including a lawsuit from former Assassin’s Creed head Marc-Alexis Côté regarding management changes.

    Couture announced that February 3, 2026, would be his final day at Ubisoft Montreal, sharing that he is “in need of some change” and plans to “soon pivot” to new opportunities at a smaller studio alongside other experienced colleagues. However, he has not disclosed the name of this new studio.

    Career Highlights

    Couture’s career trajectory highlights his beginnings with the PS2 Prince of Persia trilogy, which includes The Sands of Time, Warrior Within, and The Two Thrones. He later transitioned into senior-level and world design positions within various prominent Ubisoft franchises. Notably, in the Assassin’s Creed series, reports indicate he took on a senior design role for the first Assassin’s Creed in 2005 and maintained significant positions throughout the series’ growth into expansive open worlds.

    Additional Contributions

    The same reports mention that Couture also played a role in the development of Far Cry 4 and Watch Dogs. Most recently, he held the position of world-level design director for the upcoming Assassin’s Creed project known as Codename Hexe.

    Couture’s announcement appears to signal a personal career shift; however, it coincides with ongoing challenges at Ubisoft related to workplace dynamics and organizational issues. Notebookcheck has reported on the repercussions of Ubisoft’s return-to-office policy, which included disciplinary measures and the firing of a Montreal employee who publicly criticized the policy.

    Ongoing Legal Issues

    In related news, Notebookcheck has also highlighted legal troubles surrounding the previous leadership of the franchise. Marc-Alexis Côté, the former head of Assassin’s Creed, is suing Ubisoft, claiming constructive dismissal linked to restructuring and changes in management.

    For fans of Assassin’s Creed, Couture’s exit is being interpreted not just as the departure of a significant developer but rather as another indication of the shifting landscape of veteran staff within Ubisoft’s flagship series.

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  • Ubisoft Games to Use Player-Facing AI After 6 Cancellations

    Ubisoft Games to Use Player-Facing AI After 6 Cancellations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is canceling six projects, including the Prince of Persia remake, to rethink AAA game development.
    2. The company aims to reduce budgets and focus on creating more “gamer-centric” titles with the help of generative AI technology.
    3. Future games will emphasize Open World Adventures and Games as a Service (GaaS) models to boost post-launch revenue.
    4. AI will enhance NPC behavior, allowing for dynamic interactions and personalized dialogue based on player actions.
    5. Concerns exist about the quality of AI-generated content, with fears of bland dialogue, but Ubisoft hopes this transformation will aid in financial recovery.

    Ubisoft is going through a transformation, having decided to cancel six projects, including the remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. This decision gives the company a chance to rethink how they create AAA games. In a recent press release, they mentioned their aim to cut down on budgets and develop more “gamer-centric” titles, with the support of generative AI technology.

    Future Game Plans

    The announcement provided insights into the kinds of Ubisoft games that are expected in the future. The new operational approach will enhance the implementation of the Group’s strategy, focused on Open World Adventures and GaaS-native experiences. This shift will be backed by strategic investments, deeper specialization, and advanced technology, particularly with increased focus on player-oriented Generative AI.

    Embracing Open Worlds

    The French publisher is well-acquainted with open-world games through its Assassin’s Creed series. The emphasis on the Games as a Service (GaaS) model aims to boost revenue after a game’s launch. While this approach has its critics among gamers, the incorporation of AI might raise even more eyebrows.

    In a discussion from September 2025, GamesRadar highlighted Yves Guillemot’s acceptance of these contentious tools. The CEO stated that as players explore, the “world will react to their behavior instead of pre-scripted things,” which is a significant change.

    The Role of AI in Gameplay

    NPC behavior is a key illustration of how AI could transform gameplay. Instead of being limited to fixed choices, characters will interact dynamically with players. This means dialogue can shift as players engage with the game. The aim is to create unique experiences that cater to individual players.

    In contrast to designing background assets, the “player-facing generative AI” is set to play a much more significant role. Guillemot emphasizes that human oversight in storytelling will remain essential, preventing uncontrolled machine learning from taking over. However, this could lessen the workload for developers, potentially leading to job reductions.

    Fans are worried that Ubisoft might produce “AI slop,” featuring bland dialogue that lacks the creativity of skilled writers. Still, the struggling publisher is hoping this new direction will help it recover from its significant financial losses.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Chief Sues Ubisoft for Constructive Dismissal

    Assassin’s Creed Chief Sues Ubisoft for Constructive Dismissal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marc-Alexis Cote alleges he was constructively dismissed from Ubisoft, leading him to sue for over CAD $1.3 million in damages.
    2. Cote claims Ubisoft introduced a new management structure that diminished his role, offering him a less powerful position instead.
    3. He described the work environment as anxiety-inducing and felt his demotion was unacceptable, prompting his request for severance pay.
    4. Ubisoft maintains that Cote left voluntarily and has not commented further on the legal situation.
    5. The restructuring coincided with Tencent’s involvement, leading to significant changes in leadership for major Ubisoft franchises.

    Former Assassin’s Creed franchise leader Marc-Alexis Cote alleges that Ubisoft pushed him out of his role through what he calls a “constructive dismissal” in October 2025. The company claims he left on his own accord. Now, Cote is suing Ubisoft for over CAD $1.3 million in damages.

    Lawsuit Filed

    As reported by CBC Radio-Canada, Cote has filed his lawsuit in the Superior Court of Quebec. The document highlights a management meeting from 2025, where Ubisoft introduced a new “Head of Franchise” position intended to manage all major intellectual properties under Vantage, which took away many of Cote’s responsibilities.

    Cote claims he was offered the role of “Head of Production,” which involved relocating to France and reporting to the newly appointed Head of Franchise, ultimately reducing his power.

    Demotion and Anxiety

    He was also given the option to head a “Creative House” focused on smaller IPs. This left him feeling “disoriented, confused, and troubled by the anxiety-inducing environment.” Cote viewed this situation as an “unacceptable demotion and a disguised dismissal,” prompting him to request severance pay. Ubisoft reportedly instructed him not to return to work on October 13 until they could respond. The following day, they announced his “voluntary resignation,” which Cote argues was a strategy to avoid paying severance.

    The lawsuit demands two years of salary for severance and an extra CAD $75,000 for moral damages due to “an abuse of power and damage to his reputation,” amounting to over CAD $1.3 million. Cote’s case also requests that the court nullify the non-compete clause tied to his alleged “voluntary exit.”

    Ubisoft’s Response

    Ubisoft has chosen not to provide any comments regarding the situation, simply stating, “We don’t comment on legal matters.”

    Cote dedicated two decades working on the Assassin’s Creed series in various capacities, including director, designer, and producer. He later managed the franchise’s global operations and laid out the series’ long-term plans in 2022. However, circumstances shifted dramatically when Tencent became involved.

    Earlier, Ubisoft’s co-CEOs, Charlie Guillemot and Christophe Derennes, communicated internally that Cote had resigned voluntarily to explore new opportunities. Contrarily, Cote clarified on LinkedIn a few days later, asserting, “I did not walk away. I stayed at my post until Ubisoft asked me to step aside.”

    Leadership Changes

    Ubisoft then assigned leadership of the Assassin’s Creed franchise to someone “closer to its organizational structure,” and Cote was removed from his position after he declined to move to France. Ubisoft contends that Cote was given alternative opportunities, which he viewed as demotions. They argue that these new roles didn’t have the “scope, mandate, or continuity” he had as the head of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.

    This restructuring occurred during a summer program in 2025, leading to the establishment of Tencent-backed Vantage Studios, which now oversees Ubisoft’s three largest IPs: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six.

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  • Nintendo and Ubisoft Collaboration Could Boost Many Switch 2 Games

    Nintendo and Ubisoft Collaboration Could Boost Many Switch 2 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Third-party games on Switch 2, like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, show smooth gameplay at lower frame rates, while some titles struggle with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) issues.
    2. The Switch 2 lacks VRR support while docked, causing frustration for handheld users.
    3. Hitman World of Assassination faced performance issues, with frame rates inconsistent between 30 and 40fps, and a patch limiting it to 30fps was deemed unsatisfactory.
    4. Ubisoft has developed an algorithm to maintain VRR at 30fps in some games, and they are working with Nintendo to enhance VRR support across the console.
    5. Ubisoft believes DLSS technology has untapped potential and can improve performance, but many developers have been hesitant to adopt it.

    Third-party Switch 2 games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows show smooth gameplay even when running at lower frame rates. On the other hand, some other titles do not take full advantage of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), leading to issues like stuttering. In a discussion with FRVR, Ubisoft developers shared how they tackled these limitations of the feature. The company is also providing its knowledge to Nintendo, potentially benefiting a wider range of games.

    Concerns with VRR on Switch 2

    Despite the modern features of Nintendo’s latest console, players have pointed out a few disadvantages. One major issue concerning the Switch 2’s specs is the lack of VRR support while docked, which tends to frustrate gamers during handheld use.

    Performance Issues with Hitman

    According to an analysis from Digital Foundry, Hitman World of Assassination was released with uneven visuals. Even though the frame rates were unlocked, they commonly hovered between 30 and 40fps. The testers suggested that an important feature meant to enhance performance was malfunctioning. A patch limited the frame rates to 30fps, but many players did not see this as a satisfactory fix.

    Solutions for Frame Rate Problems

    The choppiness present in some Switch 2 games seems to stem from the handheld’s VRR struggling below 40fps. In both Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft utilized an algorithm to keep VRR operational even at 30fps. As they explained to FRVR, “The same frame is effectively presented twice, once in the middle of the frame and again at the end, so the hardware outputs at a 60Hz interval while maintaining smooth visuals.”

    Low Frame-rate Compensation (LFC) could assist other titles, yet its application has varied. Luckily, Ubisoft stated that they are “continuing to work with Nintendo to enhance VRR support in the future.” There is a chance that a solution could be made available across the entire console system.

    Insights on DLSS Technology

    Ubisoft also discussed how effective DLSS is. Although it outperforms its own Temporal Anti-Aliasing (TAA), the company feels it still has significant potential that has not yet been fully explored. Nvidia’s AI-driven upscaling comes to the forefront when the improved Switch 2 specs are not enough. However, many developers have been reluctant to try out this technology.

    FRVR, Digital Foundry, Assassin’s Creed YouTube.

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  • Ubisoft Delays Earnings Call, Suspending Stock Trading Last Minute

    Ubisoft Delays Earnings Call, Suspending Stock Trading Last Minute

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft postponed its earnings call for fiscal year 2025-2026 just 15 minutes before it was set to start, prompting a trading halt on Euronext Paris.
    2. The trading suspension began on November 14, 2025, and will last until the release of the first-half results, aiming to reduce speculation and market volatility.
    3. Analysts and investors view this incident as unusual and concerning, especially given Ubisoft’s recent project cancellations, including major titles in the Assassin’s Creed and Splinter Cell franchises.
    4. CFO Frederick Duguet communicated internally that extra time was needed to finalize earnings results, but legal regulations prevented further information from being shared at that time.
    5. Speculation about potential financial issues or an acquisition of Ubisoft has arisen, fueled by concerns over the performance of recent game releases and leadership changes within the company.

    Ubisoft Entertainment SA has unexpectedly postponed its earnings call for the fiscal year 2025-2026, causing alarm and rumors among shareholders and industry investors. The earnings conference, which was scheduled for the first half of the fiscal year, was delayed just 15 minutes before it was supposed to start, making this situation even more unusual compared to other postponed calls.

    Sudden Trading Halt

    The company made this announcement through a surprise press release, catching both analysts and shareholders off guard, leading to a halt in trading of its shares on Euronext Paris. This trading suspension began at the market’s opening on November 14 and is expected to last “until the publication of its first-half 2025-2026 results in the coming days.”

    The official statement reported by Reuters is as follows:

    Ubisoft announces the postponement of the release of its results for the first half of fiscal year 2025-2026.

    Ubisoft has requested Euronext to halt trading of its shares (FR0000054470) and its bonds (FR001400DV38, FR001400MA32, and FR0014000O87) from the market opening on November 14, 2025, until the publication of its first-half 2025-2026 results in the coming days. Ubisoft will inform the market of the date on which trading will restart.

    Concerns Among Investors

    Industry analysts and investors have labeled this incident as one of Ubisoft’s “strangest delays yet,” raising worries about possible turmoil within the publisher. This year has been particularly challenging for Ubisoft, with several project cancellations, including a planned post-American Civil War Assassin’s Creed, an ambitious sci-fi title known as Project Scout due to high development costs, and a new mainline Splinter Cell game that has reportedly been in development for over ten years.

    In light of the halted trading and the postponed earnings call, Ubisoft’s CFO Frederick Duguet communicated with staff through an internal email, explaining that the suspension of the stock was to “limit unnecessary speculation and market volatility.”

    An Internal Message to Employees

    According to Insider Gaming, the email stated:

    Hello everyone, I wanted to let you know that we are taking extra time to finalize the closing of the semester, and as a result, we will publish our first-half earnings results in the coming days instead of tonight.

    Due to legal regulations, we cannot share more information with you at this time. To limit unnecessary speculation and market volatility during this short delay, we have asked Euronext to suspend trading of our stock until the results are announced.

    We know this is likely to raise questions and drive media coverage. I encourage you all to listen to the conference call, which will be available via the Investor section of our site – just after the results are released, so that you have a more detailed view of our earnings. Thank you for understanding.

    Analyst Daniel Ahmad from Niko Partners commented that this situation might suggest an acquisition or some financial issues at the publisher. However, as of November 15, Ubisoft has not provided any additional information, leaving both investors and industry observers in uncertainty.

    This delay has come at a moment when there are whispers that Assassin’s Creed: Shadows may not have performed as well as expected in sales, coupled with the removal of one of the longest-serving directors of the Assassin’s Creed series in a notably abrupt manner. As rumors about a potential acquisition of the struggling publisher and game developer continue to swirl, the situation remains tense.

     

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