Paris, November 21, 2025 – In a move that signals a significant strategic shift, Ubisoft has officially completed Tencent’s €1.16 billion (Approximately $1.33 billion as of November 22, 5:26 am UTC) strategic investment in its new entity, Vantage Studios.

Vantage Studios is a newly minted powerhouse built around Ubisoft’s most iconic franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six. The deal, first announced in March, values Vantage Studios at a hefty pre-money enterprise value of €3.8 billion, aiming to accelerate these brands into “billion-euro brand ecosystems.”

So, what exactly does this mean for the future of your favorite games? Tencent now holds a 26.32% economic interest in Vantage Studios, yet Ubisoft remains in exclusive control and will continue to consolidate the entity. This intricate arrangement is designed to “delever the Group on a consolidated non-IFRS net debt basis,” strengthening Ubisoft’s balance sheet and providing enhanced financial flexibility.

The proceeds will also support “selected investments across the Group,” suggesting a broader revitalization effort beyond the core franchises.

Vantage Studios itself, fully operational since October 1st, is founded on the principles of autonomy, focus, and player centricity. Based in France, it’s led by a dedicated team, including co-CEOs Charlie Guillemot and Christophe Derennes, and will feature individual Heads of Franchises. This structure is a key pillar of Ubisoft’s new “Creative Houses” operating model, set to be fully unveiled in January.

The idea is to foster stronger creative vision, greater focus, and enhanced accountability. Will this newfound autonomy truly unlock the potential of these beloved franchises, or is it merely corporate restructuring by another name?

Yves Guillemot, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ubisoft, expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting how the closing “crystallizes the value of our world-class IPs and marks a pivotal milestone in Ubisoft’s ongoing transformation.” He believes Vantage Studios embodies the ambition to accelerate these flagship franchises on their path to becoming annual “billion-euro brands.”

Tencent’s President, Martin Lau, echoed this sentiment, stating Tencent is “delighted to be building on our strong relationship with Ubisoft,” looking forward to Vantage Studios accelerating the growth of these games as “evergreen platforms.”

For gamers, this strategic partnership is a double-edged sword. On one hand, a massive cash infusion and renewed focus could lead to more ambitious, high-quality titles and expansions for Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six. On the other hand, Tencent’s significant economic interest inevitably raises questions about creative influence and monetization strategies, though Ubisoft asserts it maintains control.

The agreement includes customary minority protection veto rights for Tencent and a five-year lock-up period on its securities. This complex ballet between creative vision and financial leverage will define the next chapter for some of gaming’s biggest names.

Ubisoft, a global creator of worlds since 1986, is committed to enriching players’ lives with original and memorable entertainment experiences, boasting a deep portfolio of games.

Tencent, founded in 1998, is a global leader in communications, entertainment, and enterprise services, developing and publishing some of the world’s most popular video games.

Their combined forces in Vantage Studios represent a powerful, if potentially unpredictable, new force in the gaming world. Will this investment truly usher in a golden age for these franchises, or are we simply witnessing the next evolution of big tech’s grip on entertainment?