What's Happening?
Ubisoft has acquired the free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game March of Giants from Amazon, along with the Amazon Games Montreal studio team. This team includes notable figures such
as Xavier Marquis, former creative director of Rainbow Six Siege, and Alexandre Parizeau, former managing director of Ubisoft Toronto. The acquisition marks a return to Ubisoft for many team members who previously worked there. Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the potential of March of Giants to bring fresh and dynamic experiences to players. The game, still in development, is seen as a strategic addition to Ubisoft's portfolio, aiming to compete in the competitive MOBA market.
Why It's Important?
This acquisition is significant for Ubisoft as it seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive MOBA genre, which is dominated by games like League of Legends and Dota 2. By bringing back experienced developers who have a history with Ubisoft, the company aims to leverage their expertise to enhance March of Giants. The move also reflects Ubisoft's strategy to expand its live service game offerings, which are crucial for sustained player engagement and revenue. For Amazon, this sale is part of a broader retreat from direct game development, allowing it to focus on publishing and other ventures. The success of March of Giants could impact Ubisoft's market share in the MOBA space and influence its future game development strategies.
What's Next?
The next steps for Ubisoft involve integrating the Amazon Games Montreal team into its operations and continuing the development of March of Giants. The company will likely focus on refining the game's mechanics and marketing strategy to attract a substantial player base. Given the competitive nature of the MOBA market, Ubisoft will need to differentiate March of Giants from established titles. The game's performance in upcoming beta tests and its reception upon release will be critical in determining its success. Additionally, Ubisoft's ability to support and evolve the game post-launch will be essential for maintaining player interest and achieving long-term success.
