Ubisoft Entertainment SA is a prominent French video game publisher with a global presence headquartered in Saint-Mandé. Ubisoft boasts an extensive network of development studios spanning across the world.
Ubisoft is renowned for its impressive portfolio of video game franchises, the studio has captivated gamers worldwide with titles such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, For Honor, Just Dance, Prince of Persia, Rabbids, Rayman, Tom Clancy’s series, and Watch Dogs. Ubisoft’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences has made its position a leading force within the industry.
In the fiscal year 2021-23, concluding in March 2023, Ubisoft recorded sales of 1.8 billion euros, with digital format sales accounting for about 85 percent of total sales, equivalent to approximately 1.48 billion euros. The U.S. subsidiary of Ubisoft contributes the largest share of sales revenue to the parent company.
UbiSoft Entertainment shared highlights of their accounts on Yahoo, which shows As of March 31, 2023, Ubisoft’s equity amounted to €1,479 million, while their non-IFRS net debt stood at €662 million compared to €283 million at the end of March 31, 2022. The IFRS net debt totaled €971 million, with €309 million attributed to the IFRS16 accounting restatement.
How did Ubisoft come into existence?
Guillemot brothers: Christian, Claude, Gérard, Michel, and Yves established Ubisoft Entertainment S.A. on March 28, 1986. These visionary founders developed a strong team that would help shape the gaming industry’s future by bringing to the table their varied expertise and commercial experience.
The Guillemot brothers began their company in France as a service for farmers, but they soon realized the market’s potential for computers and software and started selling it via mail order. With their ability to offer reasonable prices—often up to 50% lower than other suppliers—the company quickly gained popularity among French merchants.
Recognizing the Potential: Guillemot Corporation entered into Video Game Distribution
In 1985, as the demand for computer-related products grew, the brothers established Guillemot Corporation to handle the distribution of computer hardware. Acknowledging the rising popularity and profitability of video game software, these brothers decided to enter the development side of the industry, leveraging their experience in publication and distribution.
The Birth of Ubisoft and its Name: Ubi Soft Entertainment S.A.
The Guillemot brothers established Ubi Soft Entertainment S.A., subsequently known as Ubisoft, on March 28, 1986. The name “Ubi Soft” was selected to represent their goal of developing ubiquitous software that would be widely used.
Early Successes and Expansion: Rayman and Distribution Dominance (1986-1995)
In 1986, Ubisoft released its video games: Zombi, Ciné Clap, Fer et Flamme, Masque, and Graphic City. Ubisoft demonstrated, despite its early sales being quite low; it was able to enter international markets by distributing games from well-known publishers like Elite Software.
Rayman, a highly praised video game, changed the success stats of Ubisoft Entertainment. The game demonstrated the studio’s dedication to creating original and graphically spectacular experiences, marking a pivotal turning point in the industry in 1995. The success of Rayman inspired Ubisoft to open a specialized studio in Montreuil, France, and focus on the upcoming fifth-generation consoles, further establishing its position as a significant player in the market.
During this period, Yves Guillemot led Guillemot Informatique and closed several distribution deals with major publishers like Electronic Arts, Sierra On-Line, and MicroProse. The firm made considerable gains in countries including the U.S., the U.K., and Germany as it expanded globally and became France’s largest video game distributor.
Amazing Facts about Ubisoft Entertainment
- Ubisoft overcame cost challenges by shifting operations to Paris, leading to the creation of ‘Rayman’ by Michel Ancel, their first major hit game.
- Ubisoft’s unique strategy of gathering young developers in a Brittany chateau enabled them to compete with industry giants like Nintendo and Sega.
- Acquisition of Red Storm and the development of Tom Clancy games helped Ubisoft break into the American market and gain significant success.
- Ubisoft’s decision to develop games for the initially unpopular Xbox, resulting in popular titles like ‘Halo’ and ‘Ghost Recon,’ played a crucial role in their industry rise.
- Despite challenges with E.A.’s shares acquisition, Ubisoft maintained its independent status and continued to thrive in the gaming industry.
- Expansion to multiple locations worldwide and the establishment of distribution offices expanded Ubisoft’s global presence.
Most popular games from UbiSoft Entertainment
Ubisoft has produced a wide range of popular games over the years, with many franchises becoming iconic within the gaming industry. Here are some of the most popular games from Ubisoft:
Assassin’s Creed Series
Assassin’s Creed series is an action-adventure franchise where players explore historical settings as they embody skilled assassins. With immersive worlds, engrossing narratives, and meticulously designed gameplay, making Assassin’s Creed the most successful and beloved series.
Far Cry Series
Far Cry Series is another magical series by Ubisoft; it has breathtaking open-world environments and intense first-person shooter gameplay; the Far Cry series offers players thrilling and immersive experiences in different locations. Each installment introduces new stories, characters, and gameplay mechanics, keeping fans eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Tom Clancy is a highly tactical and team-based first-person shooter game. The game has gained immense popularity for its strategic gameplay and intense multiplayer battles. Rainbow Six Siege offers a unique blend of teamwork, communication, and environmental destruction, making it a favorite among all types of gamers.
Watch Dogs Series
Watch Dogs series examines issues of hacking, monitoring, and personal freedom while giving players an open-world experience in a civilization with advanced technology. The franchise has a devoted following thanks to its compelling narratives and dynamic gameplay.
Just Dance Series
Just Dance is a hugely popular and well-known game franchise and is now a mainstay at parties and social gatherings. Just Dance entices players to get up and show off their abilities with a wide range of popular songs and upbeat dance routines.
The Division Series
Role-playing and third-person shooter gameplay are combined in The Division series, which is set in a post-pandemic environment. In incredibly realistic and immersive landscapes, players become part of a squad of elite agents entrusted with reestablishing law and rebuilding society.
Rayman Series
Rayman is a series of platforming games well-known for its vibrant graphics and weird characters. Over the years, Rayman has received a huge and active fan base due to its endearing visual aesthetic and captivating gameplay.
