What's Happening?
Ubisoft has reportedly decided to discontinue the Watch Dogs franchise, according to insider Tom Henderson. This information was shared during an episode of the Insider Gaming podcast, where Henderson discussed the aftermath of Watch Dogs Legion and the internal changes at Ubisoft. Watch Dogs Legion, released in 2020, introduced a new gameplay mechanic allowing players to control any character in a near-future London setting. Despite this innovation, the game received mixed reviews and did not achieve the long-term success Ubisoft had anticipated. Henderson noted that developers felt the game required more development time before its release. Following the launch of Legion, the team transitioned to another project, which was eventually canceled.
Although Ubisoft has not officially confirmed the cancellation of the Watch Dogs series, Henderson's comments suggest that the franchise is no longer active within the company.
Why It's Important?
The reported shelving of the Watch Dogs franchise highlights the challenges Ubisoft faces in maintaining its portfolio of game titles amid a broader restructuring effort. The decision reflects the company's need to reassess its development priorities and focus on projects that align with its strategic goals. For the gaming industry, this move underscores the volatility and high stakes involved in game development, where even established franchises can be discontinued if they fail to meet expectations. The potential discontinuation of Watch Dogs may impact Ubisoft's market position and influence its future creative directions. Additionally, it raises questions about the company's ability to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences in a competitive market.
