Former Devs Reveal Ubisoft’s Splinter Cell Became Failed Shooter xDefiant
Former developers of Ubisoft have shared insights into the troubled development of the Splinter Cell franchise, ultimately leading to the failed shooter xDefiant. The narrative superhero adventure game Dispatch, created by AdHoc Studio, highlights the demand for story-driven single-player experiences, unlike the live-service direction Ubisoft took.
Background on the Development Team
Key figures in this narrative are Nick Herman, Dennis Lenart, and Pierre Shorette. These developers, having previously worked at Telltale Games, joined Ubisoft in 2017 with aspirations to reinvigorate the Splinter Cell series.
Initial Plans for Splinter Cell
- Joined Ubisoft: 2017
- Objective: Create a compelling narrative-driven Splinter Cell game
Herman expressed enthusiasm about the potential, stating the team aimed to deliver a story that fans would appreciate, as the franchise had seen a long hiatus.
Shift in Direction
However, according to a Bloomberg report, Ubisoft’s management preferred a shift towards games-as-a-service (GaaS). This pivot hindered the original storytelling ambitions.
- Management’s Influence: Preference for GaaS over traditional storytelling
- Development Challenges: Efforts to balance narrative elements with the GaaS model
Outcome and Transition to xDefiant
The Splinter Cell concept eventually transformed into xDefiant, a shooter that underwent numerous playtests before its launch in 2024. Unfortunately, it was discontinued within a year, despite attracting over 15 million players.
Reflections from Developers
Herman noted the initial excitement of the project, which faded as it became clear that creative priorities differed from management’s vision. He remarked on the recurring theme in the industry where developers’ passions often clash with corporate interests.
AdHoc Studio and Success with Dispatch
In 2018, the trio departed from Ubisoft and established AdHoc Studio alongside Michael Choung. Their debut game, Dispatch, has achieved significant success, selling 1 million copies in just ten days.
Market Demand for Single-Player Games
This success reaffirms the market’s appetite for quality single-player experiences, contrasting sharply with Ubisoft’s strategy. Current developments suggest that after four years of silence, there may still be hope for a Splinter Cell revival, albeit under new circumstances.
Conclusion
The journey from Splinter Cell to xDefiant exemplifies the challenges facing creative teams within larger game studios. As the industry evolves, the balance between storytelling and commercial success remains a vital conversation.
