Ubisoft, a renowned video game developer, has announced it will be shutting down online services for a series of older games beginning next January. These games include favorites such as Assassin's Creed Revelations, R.U.S.E., and Trials Evolution. Although players will still be able to play these games in offline mode, the online functionalities including leaderboards, multiplayer, co-op, and more will cease to exist.
The decision to "decommissioning" online services for these games is attributed to the obsolete nature of the technology that supports these services. Ubisoft explained in a site announcement that sustaining servers for older games entails substantial expenses. Aging online software can also pose potential security threats if not updated regularly. However, the low player turnout on these games does not justify such endeavors.
The list of affected games includes well-known titles like Assassin's Creed Brotherhood (for Mac), Assassin's Creed Revelations, Ghost Recon Future Soldier, Heroes of Might and Magic VI, NCIS, R.U.S.E, and Trials Evolution for PC. Each game will experience a significant change in experience due to this move. For example, R.U.S.E, an innovative multiplayer strategy game that creatively integrates poker-like deception, was primarily created for online play. Losing this feature arguably takes away from the game’s core appeal.
Trials Evolution, another game majorly affected by the shut-off, although primarily a single-player motorcycle stunt game, gained popularity due to its competitive online leaderboards. With the removal of online services, the engaging competition that drove players will be lost.
Ubisoft mentioned Splinter Cell: Conviction in the shutdown announcement as well, but this appears to only affect Xbox 360 players. As a game cherished by many for its cooperative playstyle, the announcement was received with relief by PC gamers who can continue to enjoy the game without hiccups.
It's worth noting that this isn't the first time Ubisoft has taken such a step. The company previously shut down online services for several other games, including other iterations in the Assassin's Creed series and Driver: San Francisco. This decision was initially poorly communicated, which led to Ubisoft having to further clarify and postpone the shut-off.
The gaming industry is ever-evolving with newer and more advanced technologies rendering older ones obsolete. As disappointing as it might be for fans of these older games, these transitions are necessary for companies to manage costs and sustain progress. While preserving games in their full, original form offers nostalgia, it’s also important to manage potential security risks and adapt to the rapid technology evolution in the gaming industry.
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