Ubisoft is releasing a new AAA IP in fiscal year 2019, which runs from April 2018 to March 31, 2019.
During an investor call, the company confirmed that the new IP is a multiplayer game with a strong live component. CEO Yves Guillemot said that all new IP are being developed from the ground up with live services in mind. Ubisoft didn’t release any additional details about the upcoming game.
In addition to the new IP, the company will also release new entries in three of its established franchises. Ubisoft didn’t announce which franchises these would be. The company originally planned to release five games from established franchises in fiscal year 2019. CFO Alain Martinez said this reduction is part of a philosophical shift at the company. “[We] prefer to continue delivering live content rather than coming with a sequel,” he said during the investor call. He said the company will continue to raise community engagement through regular live events and updates.
Overall, the company expects 25 percent of total revenue to come from “recurring player investment” by fiscal year 2019. This refers to microtransactions, in-app purchases, and DLC for current games. While the company has shifted their focus towards live services, they understand not all games are the same. Guillemot pointed out that a game like Ghost Recon: Wildlands, which is more story focused, will see a new entry before Rainbow Six Siege.
As part of its earnings report, the company also confirmed that Far Cry 5, The Crew 2, the next Assassin’s Creed, and South Park: The Fractured But Whole will release by March 2018. Ubisoft’s E3 event is scheduled for June 12, so it’s possible they will have more information on the yet unannounced games at that time.
