Ubisoft Toronto Lays Off 40 Staff, Splinter Cell Remake Still Developing

About 40 people lost their jobs at Ubisoft Toronto. This is a big change for the studio working on the Splinter Cell remake.
By Newsroom | Gaming, Business |

A significant number of employees, approximately 40 individuals, have been let go from Ubisoft Toronto. This action is part of a broader restructuring and cost-saving effort by the game developer. Despite these workforce reductions, Ubisoft has stated that the Splinter Cell remake remains in development at the studio. The affected staff will receive severance packages and career assistance.

Ubisoft lays off 40 staff working on Splinter Cell remake, says game remains in development - 1

Recent Workforce Changes at Ubisoft

Ubisoft has undertaken several measures affecting its staff and projects in recent months:

Ubisoft lays off 40 staff working on Splinter Cell remake, says game remains in development - 2

  • Studio Closures: Two Ubisoft studios have been closed.

  • Project Cancellations: Six projects have been cancelled, including the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time remake.

  • Game Delays: Seven games have had their release dates postponed.

  • Wider Industry Trend: These layoffs occur within a larger trend of job cuts in the gaming industry, following a period of rapid expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Employee Strikes: Approximately 1,200 Ubisoft employees previously went on strike in protest of recent layoffs and cost-cutting measures.

Ubisoft Toronto's Role and Future

The Ubisoft Toronto studio, one of the company's larger facilities, has contributed to titles such as Watch Dogs: Legion and Far Cry 6. Following the recent workforce reduction:

Ubisoft lays off 40 staff working on Splinter Cell remake, says game remains in development - 3

  • Splinter Cell Remake: Development on this project is confirmed to continue. It is understood to be a linear experience, aligning with the style of earlier Splinter Cell games, rather than an open-world design.

  • Other Projects: The studio will continue to support development on other Ubisoft titles, including Rainbow Six Siege, in conjunction with Ubisoft Montreal.

Rationale for Workforce Reductions

Ubisoft's actions are part of a stated effort to reduce costs and restructure its operations. Reports indicate a target of saving approximately €200 million. This has led to a reassessment of projects and staffing levels across various studios, including significant cuts at Ubisoft's Paris headquarters.

Read More: Capcom Asks Players Not to Share Resident Evil Requiem Leaks Before February 27th Launch

Ubisoft lays off 40 staff working on Splinter Cell remake, says game remains in development - 4

Employee Support and Statements

Ubisoft has issued statements regarding the layoffs:

"This decision was not taken lightly and does not in any way reflect the talent, dedication, or contributions of the individuals affected." - Ubisoft Spokesperson (via MobileSyrup)

The company has committed to supporting affected employees with comprehensive severance packages and career placement assistance.

Analysis of Development Status

While the confirmation that the Splinter Cell remake is still in development provides reassurance to fans, the impact of losing 40 developers from the team is a pertinent question. The studio's continued work on other live titles, such as Rainbow Six Siege, suggests a strategic reallocation of resources. The broader context of Ubisoft's financial restructuring and project cancellations raises inquiries about the future development pipeline and the overall stability of game production within the company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many people lost their jobs at Ubisoft Toronto?
Around 40 employees were let go from Ubisoft Toronto. This is part of a larger plan by Ubisoft to cut costs and save money.
Q: Is the Splinter Cell remake still being made?
Yes, Ubisoft has confirmed that the Splinter Cell remake is still in development at the Toronto studio. The company stated that this project is still a priority.
Q: Why did Ubisoft Toronto have layoffs?
Ubisoft is trying to save about €200 million. This means they are cutting jobs and changing how they work across different studios.
Q: What support will the affected employees get?
Ubisoft said the employees who lost their jobs will get severance pay and help finding new jobs. The company said the decision was hard and not a reflection of the workers' talent.
Q: What other work does Ubisoft Toronto do?
Besides the Splinter Cell remake, Ubisoft Toronto also helps with games like Rainbow Six Siege. They work with Ubisoft Montreal on these live service games.