Ubisoft has revised its financial targets and profit forecasts for the fiscal year ending in March 2025. The company expects net bookings of €1.95 billion, or around $2.17 billion, for the fiscal year. Additionally, Ubisoft anticipates net bookings of €350-370 million ($390-412 million) for the second quarter of the year, down from its previous target of €500 million ($557 million). This adjustment is attributed to the lukewarm launch of Star Wars: Outlaws, prompting Ubisoft to delay the release of its next major title, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, to 2025.
Ubisoft cites Star Wars Outlaws’ sales as “softer than expected,” despite favorable ratings and user scores on platforms like Metacritic and Epic stores. In response to player feedback, Ubisoft is rolling out updates to the game to engage a larger audience during the holiday season. Star Wars Outlaws will also launch on Steam on November 21.
The delay of Assassin’s Creed Shadows from November 15 to February 14, 2025, is a direct impact of this financial shift. Ubisoft states the game is complete but plans to use fan feedback to further enhance its quality. Ubisoft has decided to cancel its participation in Tokyo Game Show and recent press previews of the game.
Additionally, Ubisoft has made changes to its financial model for Shadows, discontinuing the Season Pass and early access for pre-orders. The game will now launch on Steam on release day, with pre-orders receiving free access to the first expansion. Current pre-orders will be refunded, and all future Ubisoft games will launch on Steam simultaneously.
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Ubisoft’s Ongoing Financial Concerns
This recent update adds to ongoing financial struggles at Ubisoft in 2024. Despite earlier reports of strong growth, the company’s stock has seen a decline, partly due to the lukewarm reception of Star Wars: Outlaws. After pressure from a minority shareholder to go private, Ubisoft’s stock prices dropped by 7%.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot emphasized a player-centric approach and reaffirmed the studio’s commitment to long-term brand value. Despite challenges, including delays and cancellations of events, Ubisoft remains focused on enhancing player experiences and delivering high-quality games.
