Ubisoft Shuts Down Beloved 26-Year-Old Studio, Cuts 'Black Flag' Remake Devs

Ubisoft has announced the layoff of 70 staff members from its Skull and Bones development team, as well as the closure of Trials creator RedLynx. The Finnish studio RedLynx will cease operations, resulting in the loss of up to 52 jobs. Meanwhile, Ubisoft Singapore, responsible for the popular pirate game Skull and Bones, will see a reduction of 70 employees, accounting for approximately a fifth of its total workforce.

In a statement, Ubisoft emphasized that Ubisoft Singapore remains a crucial part of the company's global production organization. The 70 staff reductions represent around 20% of Singapore's total headcount, which currently stands at 280. Skull & Bones, developed by Ubisoft Singapore, faced significant delays before its 2024 release. The game was priced at $70 upon launch, a decision justified by Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot as it being a quadruple-A title.

RedLynx, acquired by Ubisoft in 2011 following its success with Trials 2, Trials HD, and Trials Evolution, is now being shut down. RedLynx was previously a highly regarded support studio for Ubisoft, known for creating challenging side-scrolling bike courses. The studio's closure marks a disappointing end for a once prominent Xbox Live Arcade developer.

Ubisoft continues to implement cost-cutting measures as it restructures itself into a leaner organization focused on fewer games. Over the past few years, multiple studios have closed, and numerous staff members have lost their jobs, with several game projects cancelled. Recently, Natalie Francis was appointed Studio MD of Massive Entertainment, and Thomas Andrén took on the role of General Manager for Ubisoft's Creative Network.

Massive Entertainment, based in Malmö, Sweden, is currently leading the development of The Division 2 and The Division 3, and works on Ubisoft Connect.