**Ubisoft’s Strong Q1 Performance Driven by Games-as-a-Service Titles**
Ubisoft, the renowned video game developer, has released its earnings report for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, showcasing impressive sales figures and beating its targets. The company attributes this success to its games-as-a-service titles, which have proven to be highly engaging for players. With €290 million in net bookings, marking an 8.3% increase year-over-year, and €323.5 million in sales, reflecting a 12% growth, Ubisoft has demonstrated its ability to deliver enjoyable and profitable gaming experiences.
**XDefiant: A Promising Start and Plans for Future Growth**
One of the main contributors to Ubisoft’s growth in the first quarter was XDefiant, a recently launched game that accumulated over 10 million players within the first two weeks. CEO Yves Guillemot describes this as an “encouraging start” and emphasizes the company’s intention to expand the player base further through consistent content updates. Additionally, Guillemot highlights the success of Rainbow Six Siege’s marketplace, which continues to generate steady revenue from in-game transactions. The recently released Year 9 Season 1 of Rainbow Six Siege proved to be the most profitable season in the game’s history.
**Future Outlook: Star Wars Outlaws and Monopoly 2024**
Looking ahead to the second quarter, Ubisoft anticipates €500 million in net bookings. Among the notable releases during this period are Star Wars Outlaws and Monopoly 2024. Star Wars Outlaws is expected to be a significant driver of sales, while Monopoly 2024 will receive a physical release. The remaining releases for the quarter will consist of new seasons or DLC for popular existing games like Skull & Bones, The Crew Motorfest, and Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown.
**Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Star Wars: Outlaws: Key Focus for Ubisoft**
Ubisoft places high hopes on two of its upcoming titles, Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Star Wars: Outlaws. The recent reveal of Shadows has generated considerable interest in the Assassin’s Creed brand. Similarly, The Crew Motorfest launch has driven engagement for The Crew brand. Ubisoft acknowledges that Rainbow Six Mobile and The Division Resurgence are no longer expected to be released in FY25, suggesting a potential delay until late 2025 or even cancellation. At this time, no further games have been announced for the release slate in FY25.
In conclusion, Ubisoft’s strong performance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 is largely attributed to the success of its games-as-a-service titles, namely XDefiant and Rainbow Six Siege. The company’s strategic focus on delivering engaging content and expanding its player base has yielded positive results. Looking ahead, Ubisoft has high hopes for Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Star Wars: Outlaws, which are expected to be significant drivers of sales and player engagement. By aligning its efforts towards successful launches and long-lasting value, Ubisoft aims to continue its transformation as an organization while providing players with immersive gaming experiences.