Ubisoft has acknowledged that Star Wars Outlaws did not meet the success it anticipated. The company stated that the game's initial sales were 'softer than expected.' However, Ubisoft did not disclose specific sales figures or reveal its initial sales targets. In response to the underwhelming sales and player feedback, Ubisoft announced that its teams are 'fully mobilized to swiftly implement a series of updates to polish and improve the player experience' in time for the holiday season. Ubisoft expressed hope that Star Wars Outlaws can become a 'strong long-term performer.' Additionally, Ubisoft confirmed that Star Wars Outlaws will be available on Steam starting November 21. This marks a shift in Ubisoft's strategy, as the company is now returning to launching its new games on Steam, despite criticizing Steam's business model in the past.
The disappointing performance of Star Wars Outlaws has contributed to a recent decline in Ubisoft's stock price, reaching a 10-year low. Ubisoft has already addressed some of the issues with Star Wars Outlaws, including adjustments to the game's controversial instant-fail missions. Furthermore, Ubisoft delayed the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows to February 2025. The company also scrapped plans for a season pass model for Shadows and confirmed that the game will be available on Steam at launch.
Ubisoft recently held a meeting with its board of directors and concluded that it needs to lower its earnings forecast for the fiscal year, partly due to the underperformance of Star Wars Outlaws and the delay of Assassin's Creed Shadows. Ubisoft will provide more details on its financial results on October 30 when it next reports. The company also hinted at upcoming changes, stating it is 'launching a review' with the goal of 'improving our execution' and adopting a more 'player-centric approach.'
