Ubisoft has reportedly made a bid to acquire Arkane Studios from Microsoft, according to sources cited by Bloomberg. The Dishonored developer's own management is also considered a potential buyer as Microsoft explores options for the studio ahead of a December 13th deadline.
This deadline is a consequence of French labor laws, which require companies with over 1,000 employees to seek a buyer for three months before closure. Microsoft is currently undergoing a series of significant layoffs and studio closures, with several other studios like Double Fine and Ninja Theory also impacted.
An Xbox spokesperson confirmed to Bloomberg that the company is evaluating its options but declined to comment further. Ubisoft also declined to comment on the reports.
Should a deal be finalized, it is expected to allow Arkane to continue development on its Blade game, which is anticipated to release within the next few years. The studio's potential acquisition comes amidst broader restructuring within Xbox, which has seen numerous layoffs and studio divestitures in recent months.