Ubisoft and Tencent have officially launched their new subsidiary, Vantage Studios, marking an important step in Ubisoft’s ongoing transformation. Backed by a €1.16 billion investment from Tencent, Vantage Studios will take charge of some of Ubisoft’s biggest franchises including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six.
What Is Vantage Studios?
Vantage Studios is described as a “creative house” designed to give developers greater autonomy and a more direct connection to players. By streamlining decision-making, the studio aims to be more agile and responsive to player feedback.
The new subsidiary is composed of around 2,300 employees from Ubisoft’s teams based across multiple locations including Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Saguenay, Barcelona, and Sofia.
Leadership and Tencent’s Role
Vantage Studios is led by co-CEOs Charlie Guillemot and Christophe Derennes. Tencent holds roughly a 25% stake and has an advisory role, but Ubisoft maintains creative and business control.
What This Means for Ubisoft
The establishment of Vantage Studios reflects Ubisoft’s effort to improve focus and accountability, especially after recent challenges involving delayed releases and mixed critical responses to major titles.
The company envisions this structure as the first of multiple “creative houses” to help foster deeper connections between developers and players while leveraging shared expertise, tools, and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What franchises will Vantage Studios manage?
- Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six.
- How many employees does Vantage Studios have?
- Approximately 2,300, from Ubisoft’s studios worldwide.
- Does Tencent control the studio?
- Tencent has a minority stake and advisory role; Ubisoft retains control.
- Who are the leaders of Vantage Studios?
- Co-CEOs Charlie Guillemot and Christophe Derennes.
- Is Vantage Studios the only new creative house Ubisoft plans?
- No, it’s the first of multiple planned creative houses.
Conclusion
The launch of Vantage Studios marks a significant evolution for Ubisoft. Combining Tencent’s financial support with Ubisoft’s creative talent, the new subsidiary aims to bring some of gaming’s biggest franchises to new heights through increased developer autonomy and a streamlined connection with players.