Ubisoft announced today that it is discontinuing development on its free-to-play shooter XDefiant and will be closing down its San Francisco and Osaka game studios as a result. The game failed to retain a sufficient player base despite initial launch momentum.
XDefiant Released in May 2024 to Tepid Reception
Launched on May 21, 2024 after multiple delays, XDefiant showed early promise by amassing 1 million players within hours of release. However, the 6v6 arena shooter could not sustain interest in the crowded free-to-play fps market.
“While XDefiant had an encouraging start, we could not attract and keep enough players invested long-term to make further significant development viable,” said Ubisoft’s chief studios officer Marie-Sophie de Waubert. “As a result, we have made the difficult decision to sunset the game.”
Last Content Update, Then Servers Offline in June 2025
New player registrations and purchases have already ceased as of December 4th. However, the previously planned Season 3 content update will still be released before XDefiant’s servers go permanently offline on June 3, 2025.
Full refunds will be issued for recent purchases like the premium Founder’s Pack. Players will receive more refund details in the coming weeks.
277 Jobs Cut as SF and Osaka Studios Shutter
The shutdown also spells closure for Ubisoft’s San Francisco and Osaka game studios, resulting in 277 employees being laid off across those sites and the Sydney studio being ramped down.
“I’m grateful for the work of those team members affected, and we’ll support them through this transition,” said de Waubert.
Signs of Broader Ubisoft Struggles
XDefiant’s demise caps a brutal 2024 for Ubisoft, which has seen its market value plummet over 50% amidst other flagship game delays, missed sales targets, and rumors it is exploring a sale. Reports also indicate XDefiant was hampered by mismanagement and a troubled workplace culture.
While stating its commitment to live service games remains strong, Ubisoft has been reminded how punishing the free-to-play multiplayer space can be when tentpole titles fail to deliver a compelling, long-term experience for players.