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Ubisoft and at least two other companies are interested in buying Arkane, according to new report
Arkane Studios, which has faced possible closure after Microsoft moved to divest itself of the developer, has received buyout offers from several companies. Ubisoft is among at least three firms reportedly in talks with Microsoft, though no deal has been decided.
Arkane has until December to find a buyer, following an extension secured through union efforts. A sale could protect up to 217 jobs and give the studio a chance to complete Marvel’s Blade, which is expected to be released within the next year or two. Microsoft has also considered selling the studio to its management.
In short
- Ubisoft and at least two other companies are reportedly interested in buying Arkane.
- No buyer has been chosen, and Arkane’s deadline is in December.
- A deal could protect up to 217 jobs and support work on Marvel’s Blade.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A sale could preserve up to 217 jobs, retain Arkane’s creative expertise and give the team a chance to finish Marvel’s Blade. A buyer with the resources and appetite to support the studio could keep its work going while reducing Microsoft’s costs from owning a developer it no longer wishes to retain.
The case against
A sale would not by itself guarantee stable jobs or creative independence; a new owner could restructure the studio, change its priorities or cancel projects. Microsoft could reasonably weigh whether a buyer can offer a sustainable future, while a management buyout or closure might be preferable if the available offers do not provide credible long-term support.
Explained simply
Arkane Studios is a video game developer known for games including Dishonored and Prey. It is part of Microsoft’s gaming business, which also includes Xbox and a range of studios that make games for its platforms.
Microsoft has considered selling Arkane, leaving the studio’s future and its staff’s jobs uncertain. The studio is also working on Marvel’s Blade, a game based on the comic-book character; a change of ownership could affect who runs the project and whether it continues.
Ubisoft is a large video game publisher and developer, while Arkane’s management is another possible buyer. Any sale would depend on Microsoft and a buyer agreeing terms, and could shape the studio’s future under new ownership.