Ubisoft is reportedly seeking to acquire Arkane Lyon from Xbox after the studio's consultation period was extended from November to December. According to sources familiar with the negotiations cited by Bloomberg, Ubisoft is one of three companies currently in talks to purchase the developer. This potential acquisition comes as Ubisoft continues its own internal restructuring, organizing its studios into six "Creative Houses."
The extension of the consultation period coincides with ongoing development on Marvel's Blade. Reports indicate that several forms of takeover are being considered for Arkane Lyon. Sources also revealed that Xbox has explored selling the studio to its management team, a strategy previously employed with Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games. Both of those developers regained ownership of their intellectual property and publishing rights after being spun out, though Double Fine subsequently cut 23 positions shortly after becoming independent.
As of now, terms for any offers remain undisclosed, and Xbox has not reached an agreement with any potential buyer. An Xbox spokesperson stated that the company is exploring options ahead of a December deadline but declined further comment. Previously, Xbox noted it is keeping the works council and employees informed while actively seeking a partner to support the next phase of development and enable the commercialization of the project.
Arkane Lyon was one of five studios divested by Xbox as part of CEO Asha Sharma's restructuring plan, which included layoffs affecting 3,200 employees. While studio management successfully acquired Double Fine, Compulsion Games, and Undead Labs, Ninja Theory was proposed for closure after two sale agreements failed to materialize, leading to layoffs that began last month.
Sources: GamesIndustry.biz.