Ubisoft’s New Battle Royale: A Bold Take on Genre-Defining Gameplay

Ubisoft’s New Battle Royale: A Bold Take on Genre-Defining Gameplay

Ubisoft Set to Return to the Battle Royale Scene with New Game Codename Scout

HyperScape was just the beginning of Ubisoft’s venture into the battle royale genre. Reports suggest that the gaming giant is ready to dive back into the fray, this time with a game heavily influenced by Apex Legends.

According to a report by Insider Gaming’s Tom Henderson, the new project, codenamed Scout, has been in the works for at least two years. This exciting addition to the battle royale landscape will feature characters that bear a striking resemblance to those in Apex Legends, including variations of Pathfinder, Wraith, and Lifeline among others.

Valkyrie from Apex Legends
Image via Respawn Entertainment

Ubisoft’s Previous Attempt with HyperScape: A Cautionary Tale

In 2020, Ubisoft attempted to capitalize on the battle royale trend with HyperScape, a futuristic first-person shooter. However, it struggled to attract a substantial player base and was soon discontinued. As the player count for Apex Legends continues to fluctuate, Ubisoft seems convinced that there’s an opportunity to capture a segment of the market.

Potential Market Shift: Challenges and Opportunities

One of Henderson’s sources noted, “Ubisoft’s goal is to leverage the declining player count of Apex, believing there’s room for another hero-based battle royale game.” This insight highlights a strategic move by Ubisoft to reclaim its footing in an ever-evolving genre.

Ubisoft’s Track Record in the Battle Royale Genre

Tom Henderson has established himself as a trustworthy reporter regarding Ubisoft titles, frequently offering insights into the publisher’s endeavors. His previous reports regarding XDefiant indicated the project’s troubled journey, which culminated in its cancellation. Notably, Henderson revealed that “Ubisoft has axed approximately a dozen battle royale games at different stages post-HyperScape, validating the company’s cautious approach in this competitive space.

Market Challenges: The Quest for Innovation

The current gaming market presents significant challenges for publishers and developers alike. With players dedicating time to established titles like Fortnite and Warzone, finding the next big hit has proven to be a daunting task. Successful newcomers, such as Marvel Rivals, remain rare exceptions rather than the rule.

What Does the Future Hold for Ubisoft’s New Battle Royale?

Designing a new battle royale game necessitates a careful balance: it must retain the enjoyable elements of the genre while introducing fresh features to avoid redundancy. Additionally, a compelling hook and fair monetization strategy are vital for success. Despite past struggles, Ubisoft shows determination to rise to the challenge.

FAQ: Ubisoft’s Upcoming Battle Royale Game

What is Ubisoft’s new battle royale game called?

The new game is currently codenamed Scout and is heavily inspired by Apex Legends.

When did Ubisoft start developing this battle royale game?

Development for Scout is reported to have been underway for at least two years.

What characters can we expect in Scout?

Scout is expected to feature characters similar to those in Apex Legends, including variations on Pathfinder, Wraith, and Lifeline.

What challenges did Ubisoft face with HyperScape?

HyperScape struggled to gain a substantial player base, leading to its quick shutdown.

Is there a demand for another battle royale game?

With the player count for Apex Legends fluctuating, some believe there is room in the market for another hero-based battle royale game, which Ubisoft aims to capitalize on.