Ubisoft shuts down Halifax Studio days after Union formation, laying off 71 developers

Ubisoft has abruptly closed its Halifax studio in Canada, resulting in the layoffs of all 71 employees just days after the team announced its unionization. The studio, previously known as Longtail Studios, contributed to projects like Rocksmith 2014, Assassin’s Creed Rebellion, and upcoming mobile titles in the Rainbow Six franchise. The closure came mere days after 61 Halifax employees joined the Game & Media Workers Guild of Canada, marking Ubisoft’s first North American studio to unionize. Ubisoft insists the decision predates the union announcement and forms part of broader cost-cutting measures implemented over the past two years to streamline operations. Critics, including online discussions, question the coincidence, viewing it as a potential retaliation amid the company’s ongoing restructurings. CWA Canada, representing the workers, condemned the move, stating it is “unlawful for a company to close due to employees organizing” and demanding transparency from Ubisoft. The union vows to pursue all legal avenues to protect affected staff and verify the closure’s independence from union activities. Ubisoft promises severance packages and career support for those impacted. Founded in 2010 and acquired by Ubisoft in 2015, Halifax focused on mobile and support roles within major franchises. This shutdown aligns with Ubisoft’s recent layoffs across studios like Massive Entertainment and fits a pattern of efficiency drives, including a Tencent-backed subsidiary for key IPs. The gaming industry watches closely as union efforts intensify amid widespread job instability.

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