Arkane Studios Receives Buyout Offers Amid Closure Deadline
- Arkane Studios is in talks with multiple bidders, including Ubisoft, to avoid closure.
- The studio has until December 2026 to secure a buyer, an extension from its original November deadline.
- Successful acquisition could save up to 217 jobs and allow for the completion of Marvel’s Blade.
Arkane Studios is currently evaluating buyout offers from several companies following Xbox’s decision to divest from the studio. The studio has been given a deadline until December 2026 to secure a buyer and avoid potential closure, an extension obtained through union advocacy.
According to a Bloomberg report, French publisher Ubisoft is among at least three companies actively negotiating with Microsoft for Arkane’s purchase. No conclusive decision has been reached at this time, and it’s noted that Xbox also considered selling Arkane directly to its management.
Acceptance of any buyout offer could prevent the closure of Arkane Studios, which would preserve approximately 217 jobs and enable the completion of the game Marvel’s Blade. Although recent reports indicate that the game is nearing completion, Bloomberg projects it may not be released for another one to two years.
Arkane is one of several studios affected by a broader restructuring plan initiated by Xbox CEO Asha Sharma, which has resulted in over 1,600 job cuts, with an additional 1,600 reductions anticipated by the end of the fiscal year.
Other studios divested by Xbox include Double Fine, Compulsion Games, and Undead Labs, all of which have successfully transitioned to independence. However, both Ninja Theory and Arkane face uncertain futures, particularly Ninja Theory, which has struggled to secure a buyer.
With the December deadline approaching, the identity of Arkane Studios’ potential new owner is expected to be revealed soon.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
