Former Assassin’s Creed Franchise Head Files Lawsuit Against Ubisoft

Marc-Alexis Côté, former executive producer and franchise head of Assassin’s Creed, has filed a lawsuit against Ubisoft, seeking 1.3 million Canadian dollars in severance compensation that he claims the company refused to pay.

The legal dispute follows internal restructuring at Ubisoft and the formation of a new subsidiary studio.

Background: Ubisoft’s Vantage Studios Restructuring

Last autumn, Ubisoft established Vantage Studios, a new internal division tasked with overseeing the future development of several major franchises, including:

  • Assassin’s Creed
  • Far Cry
  • Rainbow Six

Côté was reportedly offered a senior leadership role within the new structure. However, he declined the position and stepped down from the company.

According to statements made by Côté after his departure, Ubisoft decided to transfer control of the Assassin’s Creed franchise to leadership more closely aligned with the company’s updated organizational framework.

He described the proposed role as an “unacceptable demotion disguised as a refusal to consider his candidacy.”

At the time, Côté publicly stated that he did not harbor resentment toward Ubisoft. However, recent developments suggest tensions remained unresolved.

The Core of the Legal Dispute

In the lawsuit, Côté alleges that he requested severance compensation upon leaving the company. He claims Ubisoft asked him to wait for an official response but instead publicly announced that his departure was voluntary.

According to the filing, this classification may have allowed the company to avoid paying the requested severance package.

Ubisoft has not yet publicly commented on the legal proceedings.

What Happens Next?

The outcome of the dispute will now depend on the courts. If Côté’s claims are upheld, Ubisoft could be required to pay the requested compensation.

The case also highlights ongoing shifts within Ubisoft’s internal structure as the company continues to reorganize its major franchises under centralized leadership.

Further details are expected as the legal process unfolds.

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