Ubisoft reassures about Assassin’s Creed Shadows while updates raise concerns for Marvel’s Wolverine. Sony has also closed two studios, with more significant gaming news on the horizon. This overview dives into the latest developments, from creative shifts in game studios to industry-shaking closures. Keep reading for more PlayStation news that’s been trending this month.
Marvel’s Wolverine Creative Shake-Up: PlayStation News
Brian Horton, the creative director for Marvel’s Wolverine, has left Insomniac Games to join The Initiative for work on Perfect Dark. Following the impressive first gameplay demo in June, Horton’s move may signal challenges for Wolverine‘s development. Known for his work on Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Rise of the Tomb Raider, Horton’s exit adds uncertainty to the project, especially as it comes midway through development. Insider sources indicate creative differences as the reason for Horton’s departure, with C. Christian also stepping down as Wolverine’s game director, though he remains with Insomniac.
The creative direction of Wolverine is now under the duo behind Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. However, these shifts likely delay any release until 2026, impacting fans’ expectations for the game’s launch.
Ubisoft’s Efforts to Bolster Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Ubisoft’s investor call provided new insights into Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Despite criticism for historical inaccuracies, Ubisoft aims to enhance the stealth mechanics and immersive world design, addressing fans’ concerns. Ubisoft anticipates a smooth February 14 release, promising a polished day-one experience thanks to a 20 million EUR budget increase. This move aims to optimize Shadows for launch, with Ubisoft projecting record first-quarter earnings and over 900 million EUR in revenue due in large part to this release.
Sony’s Studio Closures and the Impact on PlayStation’s Future
PlayStation recently closed Firewalk Studios, Concord‘s developer, signaling the end of the project. The studio closure reflects Sony’s reevaluation of live-service game investments. The company invested more than 200 million USD into Concord, though its free beta failed to generate traction. As Sony refocuses, other live-service titles, including Fair Games, remain under scrutiny.
Sony also shuttered Neon Koi, a mobile studio acquired in 2022, citing the need for more globally appealing titles in its mobile division. The closures underline Sony’s commitment to only investing in projects with the potential for significant global impact.
Ubisoft’s Billion-Dollar Franchises
In an attempt to reassure investors, Ubisoft revealed six franchises generating over a billion EUR in revenue over the last decade. Notably, Assassin’s Creed, with 4 billion EUR, led the list. Rainbow Six Siege followed closely, earning 3.5 billion EUR from a single game. Far Cry, Just Dance, The Division, and Ghost Recon rounded out the list. The revenue shows how live-service models like Rainbow Six Siege drive consistent profits, a compelling factor in Ubisoft’s focus on this format.
Next-Gen Releases and Upcoming Content
Ubisoft’s lineup for the coming months includes new entries in the Far Cry and Ghost Recon franchises, which are expected within the next 16 months. Sony, meanwhile, remains committed to its live-service model, hoping that investments in Horizon Online and Marathon may yield a breakout hit like Rainbow Six Siege.
