Ubisoft vows to use the extra time to ‘evolve the game’.
While developers and publishers often tell us that they listen to fan feedback and take it seriously, few actually do something that makes us think they actually mean it. In a time when popular game franchises seem to all become annualized, one of those franchises most known for being annualized is actually taking a step back. Ubisoft has confirmed via the Ubi Blog that Assassin’s Creed will not have a new release this year based on fan feedback.
“This year, we are stepping back and re-examining the Assassin’s Creed franchise. As a result, we’ve decided that there will not be a new Assassin’s Creed game in 2016. Since the release of Assassin’s Creed Unity, we’ve learned a lot based on your feedback. We’ve also updated our development processes and recommitted to making Assassin’s Creed a premier open-world franchise. We’re taking this year to evolve the game mechanics and to make sure we’re delivering on the promise of Assassin’s Creed offering unique and memorable gameplay experiences that make history everyone’s playground.”
One possible reason Ubisoft may be taking a break is to focus on the Assassin’s Creed movie that is set to come out this December. Ubisoft “recently unveiled the first images of Academy Award nominee Michael Fassbender in action” as the “lead Assassin in the upcoming Assassin’s Creed movie” set to come to theaters on December 21, 2016. Ubisoft appear to be big fans of the movie already. “Having already visited the set, we can’t begin to describe how surreal and exciting it is to walk the real-world halls of Abstergo, or see the intricate replicas of Assassin weaponry. We have an outstanding cast and crew that want to honor the rich lore of Assassin’s Creed and bring a fresh perspective to the ongoing battle between Assassins and Templars that’s fit for the big screen.” Though honestly, who in their right mind would release anywhere around a new Star Wars movie?
While there won’t be a new Assassin’s Creed game this winter/holiday season, Assassin’s Creed fans will be able to get their fix at the movie theatre before years end. Video game movies haven’t fared too well in the past(Thanks Uwe Boll!), but we have high hopes the latest group of movies based on popular video games fare better. What do you think of this move on Ubis part? Will you have any money left over after watching Star Wars to see the Assassin’s Creed movie? Let us know in the comments below.