Ubisoft Among Bidders for Marvel's Blade Developer Arkane Studios

Ubisoft has emerged as one of the bidders for Arkane Studios, the renowned French game developer responsible for beloved titles such as Dishonored and Deathloop. This move comes as part of a broader effort to secure the studio, which is currently on the market after being put up for sale by Microsoft. According to reports, at least three companies have expressed interest in acquiring Arkane Studios, with the French giant joining the fray alongside other potential suitors.

Arkane Studios, based in Lyon, France, is not just a cornerstone of the gaming industry but also the creative force behind Marvel's Blade, a highly anticipated video game adaptation of the iconic superhero. The game, which was first announced at the 2023 The Game Awards, is currently in development at Arkane Studios and is expected to see release within the next one to two years. However, the fate of this project hangs in the balance as the studio’s ownership is up for grabs.

Microsoft, the current owner of Arkane Studios, has set a November 13th deadline for finding a new owner, though this date has since been extended. The software giant retains until December to make a final decision on the studio's future. Meanwhile, Ubisoft, despite facing its own financial challenges and recent layoffs, is positioning itself as a strong contender for the acquisition. With over 15,000 employees, Ubisoft is well-equipped to absorb another major studio into its fold.

The potential acquisition of Arkane Studios by Ubisoft could have significant implications for the development timeline of Marvel's Blade. If the studio finds a new home under Ubisoft, there is reportedly a chance that the game could be released sooner than initially planned. This would be a boon for fans eagerly awaiting the game, as well as for Marvel, which is looking to expand its presence in the video game market.

What we know

• Ubisoft has submitted a bid to purchase Arkane Studios. ¹²³
• Microsoft plans to sell Arkane Studios. ¹²³
• Marvel's Blade is in development by Arkane Studios. ¹²³
• At least three companies have shown interest in buying Arkane Studios. ¹²
• Arkane Studios is located in Lyon, France. ¹³
• Arkane Studios has a November 13th deadline for finding a new owner, which was extended. ¹³
• Xbox has until December to decide on Arkane Studios' future. ¹³
• Arkane Studios is known for creating games such as Dishonored and Deathloop. ²³
• Marvel's Blade could be released sooner if Arkane Studios is saved. ¹
• Marvel's Blade was first announced at the 2023 The Game Awards. ¹
• Marvel's Blade is expected to be released within the next one to two years. ²
• Arkane Austin was closed by Microsoft in 2024. ²
• Ubisoft has experienced layoffs and restructuring due to financial challenges. ³
• Ubisoft employs over 15,000 people. ³