Amazon Games has officially handed over its ambitious multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) project, March of Giants, to Ubisoft. The deal, announced on December 15, 2025, includes not only the game’s intellectual property but also the entire development team based in Montreal. This transaction marks a significant retreat for Amazon’s gaming division, which has faced numerous challenges in its quest to establish itself as a major entity within the interactive entertainment sector. The sale reflects broader strategic cutbacks at Amazon Games, coinciding with recent layoffs across various divisions of the company.
The March of Giants project emerged from a team of experienced developers, many of whom previously contributed to Ubisoft. With leadership that includes key figures from the creation of Rainbow Six: Siege, the game is viewed as a reunion for these creators. Reports indicate the MOBA has demonstrated potential during closed alpha testing, receiving accolades for its innovative mechanics that allow players to control giant combatants in 4v4 battles. Ubisoft’s acquisition aligns with its strategy of strengthening its portfolio in high-growth genres, particularly as MOBAs continue to expand their global player bases.
While financial specifics of the deal have not been disclosed, industry analysts speculate the transaction could be worth tens of millions, given the talent and the project’s development stage. Amazon’s decision follows significant layoffs and the cancellation of other gaming initiatives, indicating a shift away from in-house development towards potentially more lucrative roles in publishing and support.
Amazon ventured into gaming with high aspirations in 2012, hoping to capitalize on the booming industry. Initial efforts included titles like Crucible, which was withdrawn after a disappointing launch, and New World, an MMO that initially thrived but ultimately struggled with player retention. March of Giants was seen as a fresh attempt to penetrate the competitive MOBA landscape, which has long been dominated by titles like League of Legends and Dota 2.
The Montreal studio was established in 2021, primarily composed of talent recruited from Ubisoft, including pivotal members behind Siege. This move created some tension, but the sale now brings a full-circle moment for the team. According to a press release from Ubisoft, the developers will integrate into the company’s Montreal operations, continuing development on the free-to-play title with a major update scheduled for 2026.
Reactions on social media platform X have varied, with some expressing enthusiasm for the team’s return to Ubisoft, while others have raised concerns about Amazon’s diminishing commitment to original game development. This sentiment reflects broader discussions about the challenges faced by tech giants in the gaming sector, where substantial financial backing does not always equate to creative success.
Ubisoft’s Strategic Acquisition
For Ubisoft, acquiring March of Giants represents a strategic maneuver into the rapidly growing MOBA market. Known for franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, Ubisoft has recently undergone its own restructuring amid rumors of buyouts. In September 2025, the company announced a significant overhaul, creating a Tencent-backed entity to manage key franchises and granting more autonomy to its studios. The addition of March of Giants fits seamlessly into this narrative, injecting fresh talent and a promising intellectual property into its ecosystem.
The closed alpha testing conducted earlier in 2025 reportedly received favorable feedback for its unique combat mechanics and strategic gameplay, which emphasizes teamwork and environmental interactions. Ubisoft intends to build on this foundation, potentially incorporating crossovers with existing franchises to broaden its appeal. Observers note that successful MOBAs require ongoing support to thrive—an area where Ubisoft has demonstrated proficiency, evidenced by the longevity of Siege.
As the Montreal gaming hub continues to evolve, the sale of Amazon Games Montreal underscores the fluid dynamics of talent in the industry. Many former members of the March of Giants team had previously left Ubisoft for new opportunities at Amazon, and their return may boost morale at Ubisoft amidst ongoing internal challenges. Team leads have expressed excitement about reuniting with former colleagues, indicating a shared vision for the game.
This transfer of talent not only preserves jobs but also maintains project continuity, a critical factor in such dynamic industry landscapes. Looking ahead, the integration of experienced developers and the potential for innovative gameplay may position March of Giants to capture attention in a competitive market.
Ultimately, the acquisition of March of Giants by Ubisoft highlights the constant evolution within the gaming industry, where one company’s retreat often paves the way for another’s advancement. As development continues under Ubisoft’s umbrella, all eyes will remain on whether this innovative MOBA can carve out a significant niche in the gaming arena. The shifting tides in corporate strategies and market demands may offer lessons for other tech firms contemplating similar ventures in the gaming space.
