Ubisoft re-enters NFT game with Immutable partnership

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Video game publisher Ubisoft (NASDAQ: UBSFF) has signaled a re-entry into non-fungible tokens (NFTs) following a new partnership with Immutable, a blockchain-based game developer.

According to a report by PC Gamer, Ubisoft’s new deal with Immutable will see an integration of NFTs in a “full-fledged game,” although details remain sparse over the type of the planned video game. However, multiple reports confirm that the upcoming game will allow players to own in-game elements.

Both Ubisoft and Immutable have previously worked with digital collectibles in their games, bringing a wealth of experience to the partnership. Immutable has found a measure of success in blockchain gaming with titles like Guild of Guardians, Shardbound, and Infinite Victory, introducing gamers to Web3 experiences.

“We couldn’t be more excited to explore with Ubisoft the benefits of Web3 and digital ownership for players,” said Immutable co-founder James Ferguson. “We plan to bring the full weight of our ecosystem to bear to ensure the partnership’s success.”

On the other hand, Ubisoft has yet to enjoy a rosy relationship with NFTs in its recent titles, with an attempt at helmet collectibles in Ghost Recon: Breakpoint falling below par. In partnership with Integrated Reality Lab, the company made another foray into digital collectibles via “Smart Collectibles” using its Assassin’s Creed theme.

Rather than half-heartedly infusing NFT elements in video games, the partnership with Immutable will provide an entirely new gaming experience “that will further unlock the potential of Web3.” It is widely expected that the partnership will see the development of a new title from scratch featuring in-game ownership of items and may support the trade in secondary markets.

“As the platform of choice for many leaders within the Web3 community, Immutable offers both cutting-edge technology and a unique expertise in seamlessly integrating decentralized technologies into games,” said Ubisoft’s Strategic Innovation Lab vice president Nicolas Pouard. “We’re excited to partner with them and look forward to bringing that level of fluidness within a full-fledged game, so players only have to focus on the fun of the experience.”

Ubisoft’s NFT initiatives

Experts note that the new deal with Immutable alters the company’s ambitions to pursue its in-house digital collectibles initiative. Ubisoft had previously rolled out Quartz to spearhead the game publisher’s NFT drive, but after the lackluster launch of digital collectibles for Ghost Recon: Breaking Point, activities around Quartz have dwindled to an all-time low.

The company appears to rely on external help to launch its foray into digital collectibles at the expense of homegrown initiatives. Yet, the company says Quartz remains an integral part of its offering, shutting down claims that it intends to bring the curtain down on the unit.

“Ubisoft Quartz remains an underlying infrastructure for us and we’re continuing to work with partners in the industry to offer the best possible experiences to players interested in these features,” said a company representative.

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