The Future of Gaming: Ubisoft's Vision for Subscription Services

The Changing Landscape of Gaming

Ubisoft has described its vision for the future of its rebranded subscription service Ubisoft+ and how it expects to grow it if it can convince consumers to change their mindset toward playing video games. Like movies and music available on streaming services, Ubisoft wants its subscribers to become more comfortable with not owning their games outright.

In an interview with GamesIndustry.Biz, director of subscriptions at Ubisoft Philippe Tremblay explained that getting users to become more comfortable with not owning games was just one of the business paths Ubisoft was pursuing, in addition to more traditional models of ownership. According to Tremblay, the point is not to force users to go down one route or another. Ubisoft offers purchase and subscription, and it's the gamer's preference that is important here. This shift in mindset is crucial for the gaming industry to evolve and adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

Tremblay added that one of the side-benefits to this approach is that players will never lose progress, as their save-games won't be deleted. This addresses a common concern among gamers and emphasizes the convenience and security of subscription-based gaming.

The Future of Ubisoft+

Ubisoft+ is now available on PC, Xbox, and Luna, and its big selling points include day-one access to new games, early access for select titles like Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and a library of dozens of Ubisoft's biggest hits. These features are available as part of the Premium subscription package, priced at $18 per month, while Ubisoft+ Classics on PC offers access to a curated selection of the company's back-catalog and live games.

Ubisoft still expects physical game sales to be a major part of the industry for the foreseeable future. However, the company's overall goal is to allow its users to have instant access to any of their games, similarly to how streaming subscriptions like Netflix or Max work. Ubisoft's innovative approach to subscription services and its focus on providing value to subscribers are indicative of the company's commitment to shaping the future of gaming.

Embracing the Shift Towards Subscription-Based Gaming

Ubisoft wants its subscribers to become more comfortable with not owning their games outright, similar to how consumers have embraced streaming services for music and movies. The company's director of subscriptions, Philippe Tremblay, emphasized that the transformation in consumer behavior is essential for the gaming industry to thrive in the digital age. This shift is not about forcing users to abandon traditional models of ownership, but rather about offering an alternative that aligns with changing preferences and lifestyles.

The availability of day-one access to new games, early access for select titles, and a diverse library of Ubisoft's biggest hits demonstrates Ubisoft's commitment to providing a compelling and competitive subscription service. With Ubisoft+, subscribers can enjoy a seamless gaming experience without the worry of losing progress, highlighting the convenience and reliability of subscription-based gaming.

Ubisoft's vision for the future of gaming is ambitious and forward-thinking, with a focus on meeting the evolving needs of gamers and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the gaming industry. By embracing the shift towards subscription-based gaming, Ubisoft is poised to lead the way in shaping the future of gaming and providing an innovative and accessible gaming experience for its subscribers.