Ubisoft faces backlash as 1,200+ employees walk out over layoffs and work conditions.
In a powerful display of unity, Ubisoft workers in France and Italy have taken a stand against the company's recent decisions. Following the announcement of extensive layoffs and cost-cutting measures, over 1,200 employees went on strike for three days, from February 10th to 12th. This strike comes after the union's initial call for action in January, which saw limited participation.
But what exactly has sparked such a large-scale protest? Well, it's not just about the job cuts. Ubisoft employees have multiple grievances. Firstly, the company has allegedly laid off hundreds of workers in 2026, a move that has understandably caused significant distress. But here's where it gets controversial: Ubisoft also mandated a full return to the office for five days a week, a stark contrast to the remote work policies many companies have adopted post-pandemic. And this is the part most people miss—one employee who publicly opposed this mandate was fired, according to reports.
The discontent doesn't end there. Ubisoft's recent cancellation of the highly anticipated Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time remake, along with five other games, has further fueled the fire. These decisions come as part of the company's broader restructuring efforts, which include studio closures.
In a statement, Ubisoft acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding these changes and claimed to have held discussions to address employee concerns. However, the effectiveness of these discussions is a matter of debate. Are these measures enough to address the underlying issues, or is this just damage control?
What do you think? Are Ubisoft's actions justified as part of necessary restructuring, or do they indicate a deeper crisis? Share your thoughts below!
