Ubisoft Gives Sports a Chance
Publisher picks up Microsoft Game Studios' sports tech and signs Vijay Singh for a golf game too.
Ubisoft has undergone a massive turnaround over the past five years, but the publisher and developer is about to face one of its biggest challenges yet. Ubisoft has revealed that it is entering into the videogame sports arena, currently dominated by the biggest player around - EA.
Ubisoft will pick up Microsoft's NFL Fever and other sports games
"There is still room for innovation in the sports genre and Ubisoft has some great ideas that we're looking forward to implementing," said Yves Guillemot, president and CEO of Ubisoft.
"We hope to not only offer sports fans games that have a unique flair and character, but also something that will take advantage of the fabulous capacities of current and next-generation consoles."
First up for Ubisoft is a golf game built around the world's No 1 ranked golfer, Vijay Singh. After seeing the sport dominated by Tiger Woods since 1998, Singh outplayed Woods in 2004 to come out on top in the official world rankings.
But there is more to the announcement than just golf. Ubisoft has also acquired tools and technology from Microsoft Game Studios' sports outfits, which were closed down during 2004. The move gives Ubisoft a leg up into the videogame recreations of baseball, basketball and American football.
At first, Ubisoft will be concentrating on Microsoft's consoles, including both Xbox and Xenon, but the company is planning to provide its sports games for all platforms.
Alex Wollenschlaeger
Editor, Kikizo Games
Satoru Iwata Video Interview - the late Nintendo president spoke with Kikizo in 2004 as 'Nintendo Revolution' loomed.
Kaz Hirai Video Interview - the first of Kikizo's interviews with the man who went on to become global head of Sony.
Ed Fries Video Interview - one of Xbox's founders discusses an epic journey from Excel to Xbox.
Yu Suzuki, the Kikizo Interview - we spend time with one of gaming's most revered creators.
Tetris - The Making of an Icon: Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers reveal the fascinating story behind Tetris
Rare founders, Chris and Tim Stamper - their only interview? Genuinely 'rare' sit down with founders of the legendary studio.
The History of First-Person Shooters - a retrospective, from Maze War to Modern Warfare