The gaming industry continues to shift with major acquisitions. Microsoft’s previous purchases of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard raising quite a few eye-brows. Now, Ubisoft could be the next publisher to see significant changes. Reports suggest that Microsoft and EA are discussing the purchase of Ubisoft’s IPs, fueling speculation about the company’s future.
A Ubisoft shareholder told IGN that the company hid key details about these negotiations. This claim follows a Merger Market report, which named Microsoft, EA, and other undisclosed companies as potential buyers. While a full acquisition of Ubisoft remains uncertain, the sale of specific franchises looks increasingly likely.
Why Microsoft Wants Ubisoft’s IPs
Microsoft continues expanding its Game Pass library by acquiring valuable franchises. Adding Splinter Cell, Rayman, Assassin’s Creed, or Far Cry would strengthen its service and reinforce its goal of becoming the industry’s leading publisher.
Unlike the Activision Blizzard acquisition, this deal could avoid heavy regulatory scrutiny. Instead of purchasing Ubisoft entirely, Microsoft would buy specific IPs and studios. This approach makes the transaction easier to approve.
Rainbow Six Siege, one of the most successful live-service shooters, would be a huge addition to Xbox Game Pass. Other Ubisoft franchises, such as Beyond Good & Evil, The Division, and Watch Dogs, could also increase the platform’s appeal.
EA Joins the Race for Ubisoft’s IPs
Microsoft isn’t the only interested buyer. EA also wants some of Ubisoft’s franchises, creating a competitive bidding process. Ubisoft’s decision to engage multiple companies will likely drive up the value of its assets. EA has a history of collaborating with Ubisoft, and acquiring Assassin’s Creed or Far Cry would strengthen its lineup. However, Microsoft’s larger financial resources and Game Pass strategy might give it an advantage.
Beyond Ubisoft, Xbox has major developments on the horizon. One of the most anticipated projects is the Oblivion remake, which has been rumored for some time.
According to VGC, an industry source, the Oblivion remake will be revealed soon, with a potential release before June. While April might seem too soon due to Game Pass launches like South of Midnight and Expedition 33, fans eagerly await confirmation.
Blizzard Announces BlizzCon 2026
Blizzard also made headlines by announcing BlizzCon 2026. Surprisingly, the company skipped 2025 entirely. The event will take place on September 12-13, 2026, raising questions about its timing.
Some believe this signals a lack of major releases in 2025. Blizzard may rely on Xbox showcases for updates on existing games. If true, this follows Blizzard’s recent trend of long development cycles and fewer game announcements.
Silent Hill F: A New Era for the Franchise?
On March 13, Konami shared new details on Silent Hill F in a special broadcast. Unlike smaller spin-offs, this game serves as a true mainline entry for the franchise. Popular manga writer Ryukishi07 is working on the project, generating excitement about its narrative. Silent Hill F received a rating in Korea this January, a sign that a release date announcement may be near.
PlayStation Plus Adds Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Ubisoft’s Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown joins PlayStation Plus Extra on March 18. Despite flying under the radar, it remains one of the best Metroidvania games in recent years.
Other PlayStation Plus Extra titles for March include:
- UFC 5
- Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions
- Mobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation 2
- Arcade Paradise
- Bang-On Balls Chronicles
- You Suck at Parking
- Syberia: The World Before
PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers can also play Arcade Paradise VR and the original Armored Core trilogy from the PlayStation 1 era.
