Ubisoft reportedly among companies offering to buy Arkane Lyon from Microsoft
Ubisoft is reportedly among several companies that have submitted offers to acquire Arkane Lyon from Microsoft, as negotiations continue over the future of the Dishonored and Deathloop developer behind Marvel’s Blade.
Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreier reported the bids on November 3, citing people familiar with the negotiations. Ubisoft is the only prospective buyer named, although at least two other gaming companies have made offers. Microsoft is also said to be considering a sale to the studio’s own management, which would allow Arkane Lyon to become independent.
The reported interest follows Microsoft’s decision to extend the studio’s consultation period by one month. Its previous November 13 deadline has moved to December 13, providing more time to explore options for the team and the remaining development of Marvel’s Blade.
Microsoft confirmed the extension to PC Gamer, saying it was exploring potential arrangements involving a development partner. Documents referring to a possible closure also emerged during the process, but the company said those documents did not represent a final decision. Approximately 217 people work at the studio.
No acquisition agreement has been announced, and the reported offers’ financial terms remain undisclosed. It is also unclear how a transaction would handle rights to Arkane’s existing games or the publishing arrangements for Marvel’s Blade.
The negotiations concern Arkane’s Lyon operation in France. Its sister studio, Arkane Austin, which developed Prey and Redfall, was closed by Microsoft in 2024.
Arkane Lyon announced Marvel’s Blade in December 2023. Microsoft’s search for a partner has included finding support for the development work still ahead, with the project’s future tied to the ongoing discussions over the studio.
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