Ubisoft adjusts financial projections following "soft" sales from Star Wars Outlaws and a delay in the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows

Ubisoft has updated its financial forecasts, projecting net bookings of approximately €1.95 billion along with a nearly balanced non-IFRS operating income and free cash flow.

Initially, Ubisoft anticipated net bookings of about €500 million for the second quarter, with its 2024-25 schedule featuring titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows and Star Wars Outlaws. The latter was launched at the end of August, while the former was slated for a November 2024 release.

However, due to "insights gained from the Star Wars Outlaws launch" — which experienced "weaker than anticipated" early sales — the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows has been postponed to February 2025.

The company stated, "Although the game is complete in terms of features, the feedback from the Star Wars Outlaws launch encouraged us to allocate additional time for further refinement."

Ubisoft also noted a shift from the traditional Season Pass approach, with all players gaining access on February 14. Those who pre-order will receive the initial expansion without charge.

Co-founder and CEO, Yves Guillemot, commented, "Our second-quarter results did not meet our expectations, prompting a swift and decisive response. We are intensifying our focus on player-centric and gameplay-first principles, while steadfastly committing to the enduring value of our brands."

Guillemot emphasized the company's strategy, centered on two main areas: Open World Adventures and GaaS-native experiences, with the goal of fostering growth, continuity, and substantial free cash flow.

He further reiterated, "We are primarily an entertainment company aspiring to create games for the widest audience possible, without promoting any particular agenda. Our dedication remains with developing games for fans and players worldwide."

In light of recent obstacles, Guillemot announced that the executive team is conducting a review to "better our execution within this player-focused framework and to expedite our strategic journey towards a more efficient model, benefiting our stakeholders and shareholders."

Over the past year, Ubisoft's share value has decreased by more than 50%, nearing a 10-year low, leading at least one investor to suggest that the company consider going private.