Ubisoft Toronto Downsizing: Staff Cuts at Splinter Cell Devs

Ubisoft Toronto Layoffs: What You Need to Know

Approximately 40 employees are facing layoffs at Ubisoft Toronto, the studio responsible for the upcoming remake of the original Splinter Cell game. This accounts for around eight percent of the studio’s workforce. The decision to downsize comes as part of Ubisoft’s cost-cutting efforts following a restructuring that involved a significant investment from Tencent. In a similar move, Ubisoft is also considering letting go of up to 200 employees in Paris and reducing fixed costs by €200 million over the next two years.

Like most layoff announcements, the official statement from Ubisoft features a blend of impersonal language and vague reassurances. An anonymous spokesperson emphasized that the layoffs were a difficult decision and do not reflect the skills or contributions of the affected individuals. The priority now is to provide comprehensive severance packages and support for career transitions.

An internal email obtained by MobileSyrup revealed that despite the layoffs, Ubisoft Toronto will continue to play a significant role in various development projects and service teams, including the Splinter Cell remake. The remake, powered by the Snowdrop engine, was announced in 2021 but has since remained relatively quiet on updates. While Splinter Cell may not be one of Ubisoft’s flagship franchises, the project’s future is uncertain, given Ubisoft’s prioritization of “billionaire brands.”

Since the beginning of the year, Ubisoft’s restructuring efforts, supported by Tencent, have led to the cancellation of six games, the postponement of seven others, and the closure of certain studios, in addition to widespread layoffs. The company has also introduced a new policy where employees receive an annual allowance of remote working days instead of adopting a full hybrid work model. These changes have sparked protests among Ubisoft employees.