If you’ve been keeping up with video game industry developments in recent months, you’ve likely heard about Ubisoft’s latest strategic initiative: the creation of a new, as-yet-unnamed subsidiary. Formed in collaboration with Tencent, this new division is tasked with overseeing and nurturing three of Ubisoft’s biggest franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six, to preserve their long-term value and sharpen their creative focus. And this venture will be led by Charlie Guillemot, which has raised concerns.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot shared the news in a blog post, confirming the appointment of the new co-CEO for the subsidiary. According to Guillemot, Charlie was chosen due to his background in game development, combined with a strong product mindset, deep roots in tech culture, and a passionate commitment to the video game industry.
However, the announcement has sparked widespread criticism and renewed accusations of nepotism. Despite the praise, Charlie Guillemot has never been involved in any major Ubisoft project. His most notable recent role was leading Unagi, a company focused on NFTs and AI, a far cry from AAA game development. The lack of high-profile experience within the company has led many in the industry to question the legitimacy of his appointment.
The New Ubisoft Subsidiary Leadership
Charlie will not be running the subsidiary alone, however. He will be joined by Christophe Derennes, a veteran executive with decades of experience. Derennes played a pivotal role in elevating Ubisoft Montreal to one of the company’s most important studios, having worked on landmark titles such as Far Cry 3, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, and Rainbow Six Siege. His appointment is likely intended to balance out the inexperience of his co-CEO counterpart.
So far, Tencent, the largest investor in this new subsidiary, has not issued any public statement regarding the appointment of the co-CEOs.
While Ubisoft frames this move as part of a broader strategy to empower its most valuable IPs, the optics of putting a family member in such a high-ranking position are hard to ignore. Time will tell whether this leadership duo can deliver the creative and commercial success the company is banking on.
