In the intense world of gaming, Ubisoft has always been a beacon of creativity. But as the release of a highly anticipated game comes closer, “Assassin’s Creed Mirage”, the gaming giant now has to worry about a major issue that is a little close to home. Several key executives were arrested following allegations of sexual misconduct, making headlines.
This news sends tremors through the gaming community, a vast cohort eagerly waiting for the next chapter of the Assassin’s Creed saga. Such grave accusations against the company’s former figureheads are a severe shock, casting a potential pause on the game’s launch.
Five former Ubisoft executives, including Serge Hascoët and Tommy François, have been arrested following a year-long investigation into claims of sexual assault and harassmenthttps://t.co/xIbQwyrHzc
— GamesIndustry (@GIBiz) October 4, 2023
Ubisoft has been at the forefront of shaping gaming experiences, crafting narratives that enthrall millions. But this current narrative, unfolding in real-time, could pose significant challenges for the brand. With this matter, it’s not just the game that’s at stake but also the loyalty of the gaming community.
Alarmingly, the timing matches with the release of “Assassin’s Creed Mirage”. The arrests have rocked the gaming community, which eagerly awaited the release of one of Ubisoft’s crown jewels. Understandably, fans are torn between supporting a much-loved gaming franchise and grappling with the alleged misconduct’s gravity.
Ubisoft suffers a major blow right before Assassin’s Creed Mirage’s release
France’s Libération revealed that authorities arrested five former Ubisoft executives, including the former chief creative officer Serge Hascoët and former VP Tommy François. Both left the company in 2020 amidst a flurry of s*xual misconduct accusations.
The Paris district of Bobigny’s public prosecutor’s office took the lead after the Solidaires Informatique union and two individual victims lodged complaints. A thorough judicial investigation followed, gathering testimonies from nearly 50 present and past employees. The lawyer representing the plaintiffs, Maude Beckers, stated that the inquiry uncovered “systemic s*xual violence”.
Ubisoft, when probed by media outlets, chose a cautious path. Their response was succinct: “Ubisoft has no knowledge of what has been shared and therefore can’t comment.” This guarded approach reflects the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for the company’s reputation.
Back in 2020, the gaming giant faced a storm of allegations from various departments and studios. The company removed notable figures like Ashraf Ismail, the director of “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla”, from their roles. Other top executives, including Hascoët, François, and global HR head Cécile Cornet, opted for resignation.
Yves Guillemot, Ubisoft’s co-founder and CEO, pledged substantial changes after these unsettling revelations. He has proclaimed that the company aims to create a safe environment for its employees. Nevertheless, a report still states that the employees feel like nothing has really changed.
Ubisoft admitted its shortcomings and vouched to improve. Ubisoft launched online reporting tools, revised the company’s code of conduct, investigated claims, and ensured staff training across the board. However, allegations of slow responses and lackluster action against abusive management continued.
Despite these challenges, Ubisoft remains hopeful for “Assassin’s Creed Mirage”. Slated for an October 5 release, the game is critical for Ubisoft’s commercial success, especially considering declining sales, delays, and dwindling consumer trust. Only time will reveal the game’s success and the company’s ability to regain its lost trust.