Ubisoft’s recent earnings disclosure has sparked debate within gaming circles. On page 10, under the company’s strategic initiatives, executives controversially argue that optional in-game purchases enrich gameplay experiences for premium titles.

Our commitment to sustainable engagement practices ensures players can fully enjoy games without additional spending. Microtransactions in premium titles enhance personalization and progression while remaining non-essential. Customization options and time-saving features are designed to complement, not compromise, the core experience.

This stance faces sharp criticism from dedicated players. While free-to-play titles often rely on such models for revenue, many argue that full-priced games shouldn’t employ similar tactics. The baseline cost of entry, they contend, should guarantee complete access to all content.

Ubisoft first integrated optional in-game purchases into their AAA titles with 2017’s Assassin’s Creed Origins. Current offerings in games like Assassin’s Creed: Shadows continue this approach, featuring aesthetic items like exclusive skins, weapon designs, and character outfits. Though some paid gear boasts impressive stats, equivalent power levels can be achieved through regular gameplay. Despite investor-friendly messaging, such statements risk further alienating core gaming audiences.

Separately, Ubisoft announced leadership changes at its recently formed subsidiary, partially financed by Tencent. The division will be spearheaded by Charlie Guillemot (son of CEO Yves Guillemot) and Christophe Derennes, previously overseeing the publisher’s US-based development teams.