Ubisoft employees have taken a stand, launching a strike in response to recent job cuts and an enforced return-to-office policy. The situation has escalated to a critical point where at least 1,200 workers participated in a three-day strike, which began on February 10, 2026, primarily in France and Milan.
The strike is a reaction to Ubisoft's announcement of a mandatory return-to-office (RTO) policy, plans to eliminate approximately 200 jobs, and significant changes in their project lineup, including the postponement of seven upcoming games and the outright cancellation of six others. Among these canceled projects is the much-anticipated remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. Adding fuel to the fire, a veteran developer from the Assassin's Creed franchise was terminated after voicing concerns about the RTO mandate on social media, raising questions about workplace transparency and employee rights.
In a unified statement shared on Bluesky on January 28, five French unions urged Ubisoft staff worldwide to join the walkout, emphasizing that it is time for management to recognize the limits of their authority, particularly regarding public funds and the contributions of their workforce. Ubisoft, which employs around 17,000 people globally across various regions, has faced increasing scrutiny over its management decisions.
The company’s directive requiring employees to return to in-person work five days a week has drawn strong criticism. The unions argue that this policy treats employees as if they are incapable of self-management, while management seems to evade accountability for its actions. "We are being treated like children that need supervision, while our management gets away with lies and breaking the law," the unions stated, highlighting the discontent among the workforce.
Recent developments, including studio closures and project cancellations, which Ubisoft referred to as a "major organisational, operational and portfolio reset," have led to the confirmation that up to 200 jobs will be cut via a Rupture Conventionnelle Collective (RCC). This process allows unionized employees to negotiate their severance terms collectively. In essence, the unions will assist those affected in securing a fair exit package based on their tenure. Ubisoft has characterized these layoffs as part of an "acceleration of cost-reduction initiatives." Notably, the company's stock price has recently dropped to its lowest point in 15 years, reflecting investor concerns about its future direction.
The enforcement of the RTO policy has proven particularly unpopular, especially for employees who were initially hired under remote work agreements and reside far from any Ubisoft office. For many, this new requirement poses an impossible challenge, leading some to believe that the company is effectively pushing them towards resignation without the obligation of providing severance pay.
A representative from the French union Syndicat des travailleurs et travailleuses du jeu vidéo (SJTV) pointed out, "Many workers were hired with fully remote contracts and live hours away from the office. For them, this policy change means there is no option but to leave."
Photos and videos demonstrating solidarity among striking workers have surfaced on social media, showcasing scenes of Ubisoft employees celebrating their stance even amidst inclement weather in Milan.
The strike's details first emerged from French financial news outlet Les Echos on January 27, with the participating unions including CGT, CFE-CGC, Printemps écologique, Solidaires Informatique, and STJV.
But here's where it gets controversial: Can a company prioritize cost-cutting at the expense of employee well-being? The unfolding events at Ubisoft have ignited discussions about corporate responsibility and the treatment of workers in the gaming industry. What are your thoughts on the balance between a company’s financial health and the welfare of its employees? Are strikes an effective way for workers to voice their concerns, or do they create more issues in the long run? Share your opinions in the comments!
