Ubisoft and at least two other gaming companies have reportedly submitted bids to acquire Arkane Lyon, the studio behind Dishonored and Deathloop. The reported offers could provide a way for the team to remain active and continue work on Marvel’s Blade, announced in 2023.
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, Microsoft is also considering a management buyout that would allow the Lyon-based studio to become independent. No terms have been finalized, and Microsoft has declined to discuss specific negotiations.
Arkane Lyon’s future has been uncertain as Microsoft reviews its studio portfolio. The team is in a consultation process under French labor laws, and reports last month said it faced a mid-November deadline to find a buyer or risk closure. The situation puts around 217 jobs and the future of Marvel’s Blade at stake.
Ubisoft’s reported interest has a local connection: the publisher is headquartered in France and has an existing infrastructure there. Microsoft is exploring options ahead of a December deadline, according to an Xbox spokesperson.
Sources: Windows Central.