Ubisoft staff are preparing for a global strike from February 10th to 12th, 2026, as workers push back against sweeping restructuring plans. The action was organized by a coalition of unions — STJV, CFE-CGC, CGT, Printemps Écologique, and Solidaires Informatique — and will affect employees at Ubisoft studios worldwide.
The strike follows Ubisoft's announcement of aggressive cost-cutting measures: studio closures, canceled projects, a full return-to-office mandate, and layoffs. Workers say they learned about these changes at the same time as the press, bypassing what they describe as legally required consultation processes. Union representatives argue that management has sidestepped meaningful dialogue, leaving staff blindsided and mistrustful.
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Staff Concerns Over Working Conditions and Transparency
In a joint statement, the unions criticized Ubisoft's office mandate as inflexible and accused leadership of treating employees with what they called coercive control. They pointed out that Ubisoft's growth has been built on the backs of its workforce and significant public funding, yet staff feel sidelined when major decisions are made. The statement underscored a breakdown in trust between workers and the executive team.
The restructuring is projected to cut costs by around €200 million. Ubisoft has confirmed the cancellation of six games, delays to seven others, and plans to eliminate 200 roles at Ubisoft International in Paris through a voluntary redundancy program. While the company says it will negotiate terms with unions, worker representatives maintain that consultation has been inadequate and that the process has been rushed.
Broader Impact on Ubisoft and the Industry
The strike underscores persistent tensions in the games industry around workforce treatment, transparency, and the balance between corporate cost-cutting and employee autonomy. For Ubisoft, the walkout is a direct challenge to management's handling of layoffs and workplace policy, particularly the mandatory office return. Operations across multiple studios are expected to see disruption during the three-day action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will Ubisoft employees strike?
The global strike is scheduled for February 10th to 12th, 2026.
Why are Ubisoft employees striking?
Workers are protesting studio closures, canceled and delayed projects, mandatory office attendance, layoffs, and what they describe as insufficient communication and consultation from management.
How many jobs are affected by Ubisoft's restructuring?
Ubisoft plans to cut approximately 200 roles at Ubisoft International in Paris via a voluntary redundancy scheme. Multiple game projects have also been scrapped or pushed back.
Which unions are involved in the strike?
The participating unions are STJV, CFE-CGC, CGT, Printemps Écologique, and Solidaires Informatique.
What does this mean for Ubisoft's games?
The strike is temporary but could disrupt development timelines, especially for projects already facing delays or cancellations.
