The Division 2 Kicks Off Free-Play Event As Ubisoft’s Financials Take A Massive Dive
At the top of the year, Ubisoft warned investors that it’s going to be a bumpy ride for the studio financially. The numbers are now in for the fiscal year that ended in March, and it’s a lot grimmer than they expected.
The French publisher’s latest financial report reveals a 15% drop in sales, an 18% decline in net bookings, and a staggering $538 million in net losses. Investors were warned to expect a 10% decline in net bookings but it looks like they missed the mark by a fair margin. The fourth quarter numbers paint an even gloomier picture with sales plummeting by a whopping 56% year-over-year. Net bookings suffered a similar fate, dropping 53% compared to the previous year.
When pressed about the disappointing figures during the investor call, Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot, nonchalantly said that the drop was “in line with guidance.”
In a desperate attempt to win back players (and their wallets), Ubisoft is currently running a The Division 2 that will run until May 21st. The free trial is available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, although Xbox players will need an Xbox Gold subscription to the free party.
Whether the free trial will be enough to turn the tide for Ubisoft is anyone’s guess. For now, they’re left nursing their financial wounds.
Our Free Weekend for #TheDivision2 is live. Welcome to all new Agents across the globe, see you in DC! 🏛️ pic.twitter.com/rYFRtYgMbE
— Tom Clancy's The Division (@TheDivisionGame) May 18, 2023
