A newly announced proposal from Ubisoft, the publisher behind popular titles such as Just Dance (2009), Assassin’s Creed (2007), and Rayman Legends (2013), could result in the closure of associate studio RedLynx Games, in addition to layoffs impacting about a fifth of Ubisoft Singapore’s staff. Although the majority of this proposal’s contents are kept confidential, it has been confirmed that both are part of Ubisoft’s “Major Organizational, Operational and Portfolio Reset to Reclaim Creative Leadership and Restore Sustainable Growth” plan that was publicized this past January. Currently, as explained in an official statement, the Singapore layoffs have already been guaranteed, while the fate of RedLynx Games will be determined by the Finnish legal process.
Today, we informed our teams of a proposal to close RedLynx in Finland, subject to the local change negotiation process, which would affect up to 52 positions. At Ubisoft Singapore, 70 positions have been impacted to align the studio with upcoming production needs. The studio remains an important part of Ubisoft’s global production organization. We deeply value the contributions of both teams and recognize the impact this may have on our colleagues. We are committed to supporting our teams throughout this process and conducting it with care and respect.
RedLynx Games operated as a private development studio for over a decade, before being acquired by Ubisoft in 2011. During their earlier years, the studio produced several browser and mobile games, alongside Nokia titles such as Monster Trucks Nitro (2008), Pathway to Glory (2004), and the first iteration of Trials (2001). Despite the massive success various Trials titles would see post-acquisition, very few projects were delegated to RedLynx, something that has played a massive role in the studio’s potential closure.
As for how, exactly, this fits into January’s restructuring plan, the closure is considered necessary as part of the €200 million cut in annual expenses outlined to occur before 2028. Some Ubisoft owned small studios like RedLynx are being streamlined into one of five ‘houses’ for game production. One of these houses is titled Vantage Studios, while the other four are simply called ‘Creative Houses,’ numbers one through four. This restructuring program is set to continue until March of 2028, with hopes of relieving financial strain on the company.