Ubisoft Toronto Has Laid Off 40 Staff But The Splinter Cell Remake Remains In Development

Ubisoft Toronto, the studio behind titles including Watch Dogs, Splinter Cell, and Far Cry 6, has confirmed that the studio has laid off approximately 40 members of staff.

The news comes following a major shakeup for Ubisoft as a whole, with the company having cancelled six projects and delay a further seven games. Among the casualties was the cancellation of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake (a game that Ubisoft Toronto was helping out on) and the delay for Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag Remake — although the latter has yet to be officially announced. Part of this overhaul includes giving Ubisoft’s new Tencent-backed subsidiary, Vantage Studios, control of key franchises including Far Cry and Assassin’s Creed.

However, speaking to Kotaku, the publishing giant revealed that the Splinter Cell Remake has not been affected by the recent job losses. Having said that, we haven’t seen anything on the project in years. Late last month, Ubisoft announced a proposed reduction of around 200 jobs at its Paris headquarters, resulting in French unions agreeing to organise a strike on behalf of staff.

Following the recent announcement of the final phase of Ubisoft’s global cost-savings plan and the discontinuation of projects, Ubisoft Toronto will be reducing its workforce by 40 roles. This decision was not taken lightly and does not in any way reflect the talent, dedication, or contributions of the individuals affected. Our priority now is to support them through this transition with comprehensive severance packages and robust career placement assistance.

Ubisoft has has a bit of a rough ride as of late. Last month, it was revealed that former Assassin’s Creed series boss Marc-Alexis Côté was suing the publishing giant for over $1.3 million for “constructive dismissal. Côté announced in October last year that he was leaving Ubisoft after more than 20 years with the company, but it quickly emerged that the circumstances surrounding his departure were less than amicable.

[Source – Kotaku]