Ubisoft has confirmed that the team responsible for this year’s critically acclaimed title, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, has been effectively disbanded. Released in January 2024, the game received positive reviews from both critics and players, earning a spot among the top 50 games of the year on Metacritic. However, despite the warm reception, reports indicate that the game failed to meet its sales targets in what has been a challenging year for the French gaming giant, known for franchises like Assassin’s Creed.
In a recent statement, Ubisoft addressed the situation, revealing that “most of the team members who worked on Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown have shifted to other projects that will benefit from their expertise.” A company spokeswoman clarified that this transition did not involve any layoffs, which may offer some reassurance to those concerned about job security.
The Lost Crown was developed by Ubisoft’s Montpellier studio and marked the first new entry in the Prince of Persia series in over a decade. Players stepped into the shoes of Sargon, navigating various environments and gradually unlocking more of the game’s expansive map as they acquired new abilities. The game was especially lauded for its stunning visuals, fluid controls, and authentic dialogue performed in Farsi, adding depth to the narrative rooted in a Middle Eastern setting.
Abdelhak Elguess, the senior producer for the game, expressed his pride in the team’s efforts. He noted, “I am extremely proud of our team’s work and passion on a game that resonated with players and critics alike.” Elguess also conveyed optimism regarding the game’s future, stating that the remaining team members would work to expand its availability across new platforms. He reassured fans that “more Prince of Persia experiences” are on the horizon, including a confirmed remake of the beloved 2003 title Sands of Time.
While it’s common practice for large game publishers like Ubisoft to reallocate staff to different projects, this announcement has left fans of The Lost Crown hoping for a sequel feeling disappointed. The move comes amid a backdrop of criticism for Ubisoft, particularly concerning the troubled launch of Star Wars: Outlaws, which debuted in August to sales described as “softer than expected.” Additionally, the company recently announced delays for its upcoming title, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, adding to concerns about its current trajectory.
Ubisoft co-founder and CEO Yves Guillemot addressed shareholders about the company’s challenges, acknowledging that their performance has fallen “short of our expectations.” He reiterated the company’s commitment to developing games that resonate with fans and players, a sentiment that will likely be essential as they navigate these transitions.
As Ubisoft shifts its focus and resources, the future of the Prince of Persia franchise remains uncertain, though the commitment to reviving classic titles suggests that the series still holds a place in the company’s strategic vision. Fans are left to wonder what these changes mean for new content and experiences in a beloved franchise that has shaped gaming for generations.
The decision to disband the team responsible for The Lost Crown highlights the competitive nature of the gaming industry, where even successful titles can struggle to achieve commercial viability. As Ubisoft realigns its strategies and responds to market pressures, the ongoing dedication to fan-favorite franchises like Prince of Persia and Assassin’s Creed will be closely watched by both investors and players alike.
In summary, while the disbanding of the Prince of Persia team may be a setback for immediate follow-ups to The Lost Crown, Ubisoft’s plans for a remake and potential future titles keep the flame of hope alive for fans eager for more adventures in the iconic series. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the commitment to quality and storytelling will remain vital for Ubisoft as it moves forward.