Celebrating Ubisoft's Legacy: The Top 19 Games Over 40 Years
As Ubisoft navigates a turbulent period marked by game cancellations and strategic shifts, it's worth reflecting on the publisher's remarkable contributions to the gaming industry. Over nearly four decades, Ubisoft has delivered a diverse array of titles that have captivated players worldwide. This retrospective highlights the 19 best games from Ubisoft's history, showcasing the creativity and innovation that have defined its legacy.
The Current State of Ubisoft: Challenges and Changes
Recent years have seen Ubisoft facing significant headwinds, including discussions of a potential sale to Tencent in 2024 and subsequent cancellations of high-profile projects like the Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time remake. Despite these setbacks, the company continues to pursue its live service ambitions and open-world adventures. Amidst layoffs and internal discontent, Ubisoft's future remains uncertain, yet its past achievements stand as a testament to its impact on gaming.
The Definitive List: Ubisoft's Finest Creations
This selection focuses on one game per franchise and includes only titles developed internally by Ubisoft, excluding published works from other studios. Each entry represents a milestone in the company's journey.
Assassin's Creed Shadows (2025)
As Ubisoft's flagship series, Assassin's Creed earns a spot with its latest entry, Shadows. While classics like Assassin's Creed 2 and Black Flag have their advocates, Shadows impresses with its dual protagonists set in a beautifully rendered Japan, offering varied combat styles and a richly detailed open world.
Avatar: Frontiers Of Pandora and Star Wars Outlaws (2023/2024)
These recent open-world adventures based on Disney franchises demonstrate Ubisoft's ability to craft engaging single-player experiences. Avatar: Frontiers Of Pandora excels as a sci-fi Far Cry variant, while Star Wars Outlaws stands out for its expansive environments and player freedom, making it a standout in the Star Wars gaming canon.
Beyond Good & Evil (2003)
A cult classic, Beyond Good & Evil remains iconic for its unique charm and ambitious open world. The game's protagonist, Jade, and its Gallic flair highlight a time when Ubisoft embraced its French roots, offering a refreshing contrast to its modern output.
Child Of Light (2014)
This role-playing gem from Ubisoft Montréal showcases the studio's versatility, with a storybook aesthetic and engaging battle system. It's a poignant reminder of the creative potential within Ubisoft beyond its core franchises.
Far Cry 3 (2012)
Far Cry 3 set a new standard for the series with its memorable villain, Vaas Montenegro, and a compelling open world full of secrets. Its narrative depth and satisfying gunplay make it a standout in Ubisoft's catalogue.
Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter (2006)
This title revolutionized the Ghost Recon series with enhanced tactical combat and squad controls. Its legacy endures as a fan favourite, exemplifying Ubisoft's prowess in military shooters.
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks Of Hope (2022)
A surprising crossover that became a Switch highlight, Sparks Of Hope builds on its predecessor with deeper combat and exploration. Its success underscores Ubisoft's ability to innovate within established genres.
Might & Magic: Clash Of Heroes (2009)
Breaking the rules for this list, Clash Of Heroes is a masterful puzzle-RPG hybrid that remains one of the best in its category. Its 2023 remaster by Dotemu revitalized this classic for new audiences.
Peter Jackson's King Kong: The Official Game Of The Movie (2005)
This movie adaptation stands out for its unique gameplay, blending first-person shooter and third-person brawler sections. Its involvement from Peter Jackson and Michel Ancel adds to its historical significance.
Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time (2003)
A pivotal release for Ubisoft, The Sands Of Time introduced innovative mechanics like time rewinding and set the stage for Assassin's Creed. Its cancellation remake news has saddened fans, but its legacy remains untarnished.
Rainbow Six Siege (2015)
Ubisoft's successful foray into live service gaming, Rainbow Six Siege has evolved into a robust multiplayer experience. Its tactical depth and continuous updates have secured its place in competitive gaming.
Rayman Legends (2013)
Widely regarded as one of the best platformers, Rayman Legends dazzles with its creative level design and visual flair. Its availability across platforms ensures its enduring appeal.
Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World: The Game (2010)
This beat 'em-up captures the spirit of its source material with pixel art graphics and a chiptune soundtrack. Its re-release in 2020 has reintroduced it to a new generation of players.
South Park: The Fractured But Whole (2017)
Ubisoft San Francisco delivered a worthy sequel to The Stick Of Truth, blending South Park's humour with solid RPG mechanics. Its development showcases Ubisoft's adaptability in handling licensed properties.
Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory (2005)
The pinnacle of the Splinter Cell series, Chaos Theory expanded stealth gameplay with more tools and freedom. Its influence persists in the stealth genre and upcoming projects.
The Division 2 (2019)
Building on its predecessor, The Division 2 offers a rich endgame and engaging multiplayer. Its ongoing support highlights Ubisoft's commitment to its live service model.
ZombiU (2012)
Originally a Wii U exclusive, ZombiU pioneered roguelike elements in survival horror, utilizing the console's unique features for immersive gameplay. Its underappreciation belies its innovative design.
Reflecting on Ubisoft's Journey
Despite current challenges, Ubisoft's history is filled with groundbreaking games that have shaped the industry. From stealth classics to open-world epics, these 19 titles represent the best of what Ubisoft has to offer, reminding us of its potential for future creativity.
