Will Ubisoft ever come back to Steam?
Ubisoft, one of the largest video game publishers, made a bold move by leaving Steam, a leading digital distribution platform, to focus on its own gaming platform, Ubisoft Connect. However, recent developments indicate that Ubisoft might be returning to Steam, leaving fans and gamers wondering: Will Ubisoft ever come back to Steam?
Ubisoft’s Exasperating Relationship with Steam
Ubisoft’s relationship with Steam has been a bumpy one. In 2019, the company announced that it would not release its new games on Steam, opting instead for its own Ubisoft Connect. This decision was seen as a major blow to the gaming community, as Ubisoft’s games, such as Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, were a huge part of Steam’s offering.
Why Ubisoft Left Steam
So, what led Ubisoft to abandon ship? According to the company, it was due to the limitations and restrictions imposed by Steam. Ubisoft cited difficulties in managing its digital assets, as well as restrictions on game updates and modding, as the reasons for its departure. It also wanted to maintain full control over its games, including updates, DLCs, and modding community.
Recent Developments: Ubisoft’s Shift of Heart
However, things seem to be taking a turn. In the last few months, Ubisoft has announced that it will release some of its games, including Far Cry 6, on Steam. While this is not a blanket return to Steam, it marks a significant shift in Ubisoft’s stance towards the platform.
Theories Behind Ubisoft’s U-Turn
So, why is Ubisoft returning to Steam? There are several theories:
- Business Competition: With the rise of Epic Games Store and its aggressive marketing strategies, Steam’s market share has started to decline. By returning to Steam, Ubisoft aims to maintain its competitive edge and reach a wider audience.
- Gaming Community: Ubisoft may have realized that its fans prefer a more open and modded gaming experience, which Steam provides. By releasing its games on Steam, the company can tap into the vast gaming community and enable modding and user-created content.
- Regulatory Pressures: EU regulators have been scrutinizing the gaming industry’s dominant players, including Steam, for anti-competitive practices. By releasing its games on multiple platforms, Ubisoft might be trying to avoid regulatory issues and maintain its independence.
What Does This Mean for Gamers?
For gamers, Ubisoft’s return to Steam is good news. It means more games to play, a wider range of titles, and a more open and competitive gaming ecosystem. Moreover, the return to Steam could lead to better features, such as better friend lists, cloud saves, and community features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ubisoft’s decision to release its games on Steam, including Far Cry 6, marks a significant shift in its stance towards the platform. While this move does not mean that Ubisoft will abandon its Ubisoft Connect entirely, it signals a newfound willingness to work with other platforms and cater to gamers’ preferences. For the gaming community, this can only be a positive development, as it promises to bring more games, innovation, and competition to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What games will Ubisoft release on Steam?
According to recent announcements, Ubisoft plans to release Far Cry 6, Riders Republic, Rainbow Six Extraction, and Monopoly Madness on Steam.
Will Ubisoft release all its games on Steam?
No, it seems that Ubisoft will still maintain its focus on its own Ubisoft Connect platform and release some games exclusively there.
What does this mean for Ubisoft Connect?
Ubisoft Connect will still exist and continue to function as a platform, providing exclusive content and services for Ubisoft’s games. This move is more about supplementing its offerings and increasing its reach rather than abandoning its own platform entirely.