Ubisoft Exits Halifax as Part of Global Cost-Cutting Drive

Ubisoft has officially announced the closure of its Halifax-based mobile studio, a move that results in the layoff of all 34 employees at the location.

The decision is part of a broader, aggressive global restructuring strategy as the French video game giant struggles to stabilize its financial position and streamline its decentralized development network.

Ubisoft Strategic Consolidation and Market Shift

The closure of the Halifax studio, which primarily focused on the development and support of mobile titles, marks a significant retreat for Ubisoft in the North American mobile sector.

A company spokesperson confirmed that the decision was not a reflection of the team’s performance but was necessitated by a shift in market conditions and a need to consolidate resources.

Ubisoft Halifax, formerly known as Longtail Studios before being acquired in 2015, contributed to notable projects such as “Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six SMOL.”

Despite the success of individual titles, the mobile gaming market has become increasingly saturated and expensive to compete in, prompting Ubisoft to refocus on its core “Open World” and “Games as a Service” (GaaS) pillars.

A Pattern of Global Layoffs

The Halifax shutdown is the latest in a string of downsizing measures. Over the past 18 months, Ubisoft has cut over 1,700 jobs worldwide.

These cuts have impacted various divisions, including its IT departments, global publishing offices, and other specialized studios in North America and Europe.

The company is currently facing immense pressure from investors following the underperformance of several major releases and the cancellation of multiple unannounced projects.

Management stated that the restructuring is essential to “enhance organizational agility” and ensure long-term sustainability in a volatile industry.

Support for Affected Staff

Ubisoft has pledged to support the 34 departing employees through severance packages, career counseling, and internal transfer opportunities where possible.

However, the local tech community in Halifax has expressed concern, as the studio was a cornerstone of the regional gaming ecosystem.

As Ubisoft pivots, the company is doubling down on its flagship franchises like “Assassin’s Creed” and “Far Cry.”

The closure of smaller, niche studios like Halifax suggests a future where Ubisoft operates with fewer, but significantly larger, multi-national development hubs.

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