Ubisoft Among Suitors Trying to Buy Marvel’s Blade, Dishonored Studio Arkane Lyon from Xbox
Microsoft is divesting from Arkane Studios, the French developer behind Dishonored, Deathloop, and the upcoming Marvel’s Blade, as part of its ongoing Xbox restructuring and layoffs. According to Bloomberg, multiple companies have submitted acquisition offers for the nearly 30-year-old studio, with Ubisoft confirming a bid alongside at least two other unnamed gaming companies.
Because Arkane is based in Lyon, France, Microsoft is legally required to seek a buyer rather than simply closing the studio. The company is also considering a management buyout option, potentially allowing the studio to operate independently, similar to previous cases involving Compulsion Games and Double Fine. However, no agreement has been reached with any potential acquirer.
The studio’s future had appeared uncertain following announcements of Xbox layoffs and budget cuts, with negotiations over a redundancy plan reportedly proceeding slowly ahead of a November 13 deadline. The sale represents Microsoft’s effort to find a new home for Arkane while managing the broader Xbox “reset.” Ubisoft’s interest may be motivated partly by geographical proximity, as both companies are French-based. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact development of Marvel’s Blade and determine whether Arkane can continue operating as an independent entity or under new ownership.
Sources
- Ubisoft Among Suitors Trying to Buy Marvel’s Blade, Dishonored Studio Arkane Lyon from Xbox
- Ubisoft, Others Have Looked Into Buying Arkane Studios
- Ubisoft reportedly wants to buy Arkane from Xbox
- Ubisoft Makes Bid to Purchase Xbox Studio on the Brink of Closure
- Report: Xbox Has Had Multiple Offers For Arkane Studios, Marvel’s Blade Close To Completion
- Ubisoft One of Multiple Companies to Bid for Dishonored Dev Arkane
- Ubisoft are reportedly tapped as one potential company that could acquire Arkane, though the Dishonored studio’s own management may be in the running too
- Ubisoft has reportedly offered to buy Arkane Lyon from Xbox
- Arkane Lyon may have found a lifeline as Ubisoft and others reportedly bid for the Xbox studio