In October, Amazon made a major shift, cutting 14,000 jobs and significantly scaling back its video game division. As a result, Ubisoft has stepped in to acquire Amazon Games Montreal, the studio behind the upcoming MOBA, *March of Giants*.
This acquisition gives Ubisoft not only the rights to *March of Giants* but also brings an experienced team onboard. Notably, Xavier Marquis, a former creative director from *Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege*, is among those joining Ubisoft. He initially moved to Amazon in 2021 before this latest development.
Ubisoft sees great potential in the MOBA market, which is expected to double in revenue by 2030. The company believes *March of Giants* can offer a unique experience, attracting both current MOBA fans and new players.
Yves Guillemot, CEO of Ubisoft, emphasized the excitement around the project. He mentioned the team’s creativity and ambition, suggesting they possess the right mix to create engaging gaming experiences. This acquisition aligns with Ubisoft’s goal to expand in the competitive gaming space.
While the specific terms of the deal are under wraps, Ubisoft has mentioned that Amazon will help promote *March of Giants* on Twitch, tapping into the platform’s massive audience.
Amazon’s video game strategy has faced challenges recently. Reports indicate that significant layoffs were made as the company decided to halt many of its first-party AAA game developments. This includes the discontinuation of its *New World* MMO and possibly its *Lord of the Rings* MMO as well.
Recent figures show that the global gaming market is booming, with MOBA games playing a significant role. According to Newzoo’s 2023 report, the esports market is projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2024, driven by the popularity of competitive gaming. This potential growth is likely a key reason behind Ubisoft’s aggressive acquisition strategy.
As Ubisoft aims to carve out a niche in the crowded gaming field, both companies’ futures will be closely watched. The merging of teams with diverse gaming backgrounds could lead to innovative gaming experiences that resonate with players around the world.
For more insights into the gaming market and trends, check out the recent analysis by Newzoo.
