Ubisoft says that the studio’s new approach to making games is to make games that “focus” on a specific target audience, rather than trying to appeal to a more broad non-specific crowd. In a recent Ubisoft press briefing, the vice president of editorial, Fawzi Mesmar, mentioned how from Assassin’s Creed Mirage onwards the focus has dropped from general ideas to a more specified and targeted focus that is now a vital part of the development process. In an interview with IGN, he further discussed this idea and said they no longer want one game that does everything for everyone.
He said that they want to be okay with making a decision around the game and move forward with the commitment. This means realizing that some part of the demographic will like the game, while others will drop it for its “ommissions”. And accepting that as a part of the creative process could result in games that are not as bloated and safe as Ubisoft’s past derivative endeavors.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage
He was then asked if Assassin’s Creed Mirage was the culmination of this new mindset, and he confirmed that this was part of the new strategy. That the franchise’s future plans are proof of the approach.
Mesmar then added that there are different types of Assassin’s Creed fans out there. Some wish to go back to the roots, where the whole series began, and those that want a more inclusive style that throws everything at the player. So for players who enjoyed earlier games in the series but stopped playing at some point or another, Assassin’s Creed Mirage will be a great return to form. And for people who enjoyed the recently “one size fits all” RPG approach in Valhalla and Odyssey, will have other games that cater to their interests.
“There’s so many different types of elements that we cater for. And that also exemplifies the editorial vision that we set, in which we’re not making the one game for everybody, but we’re making a game for you and focused, and we’re committing to the decisions that we’re making on it.”
Future Ubisoft Games
This newfound goal to focus on specific parts of the fan base also coincides with another aim of the company, and that is that every hour played should count towards something, and not just be a checkmark on a long list. This is something that the more recent entries are guilty of to some degree.
“So breadth, it’s not what we’re aiming for as much as it’s the depth of the experience going towards making sure every hour counts for our players and they feel that it’s time well spent.”
Mesmar ended by saying that continued innovation will provide the feeling of time well spent. Ubisoft is exploring different directions for the Assassin’s Creed franchise. This includes new art styles and new gameplay mechanics never before seen in the series.
“So every Ubisoft project will be looking at those aspects and trying to differentiate, provide depth, and provide the higher standards of quality, as well as providing new ways for players to be able to connect, interact and express themselves.”
