Ubisoft
French gaming giant
The Guillemot family built Ubisoft from a French software distributor into a global publisher behind Assassin's Creed, Rayman, and Far Cry.
Five brothers from Brittany transformed a software distribution company into one of gaming’s largest publishers. Ubisoft’s portfolio spans from the whimsical Rayman to the sprawling Assassin’s Creed franchise. The company pioneered the modern open-world formula and maintains independence despite repeated acquisition attempts.
Fast facts
- Founded: 1986 by the five Guillemot brothers in Carentoir, France.
- IPO: Paris Stock Exchange (1996).
- Studios: dozens worldwide, including Montreal, Paris, Singapore.
- Major franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, Watch Dogs, Rayman.
- Independence: resisted Vivendi takeover attempt (2015-2018).
Franchise evolution
Building blockbuster series:
- Rayman (1995): Michel Ancel’s platforming mascot.
- Tom Clancy games: licensed military tactical franchises.
- Assassin’s Creed (2007): open-world historical action.
- Far Cry (2004): tropical first-person action (acquired with Crytek).
The Ubisoft formula
Recognisable open-world design:
- Map towers: climb to reveal activities.
- Collectibles: extensive item hunting.
- Side content: missions scattered across huge maps.
- Criticism: “Ubisoft open-world” became genre shorthand.