Ubisoft is reportedly seeking to acquire Arkane Lyon following an extension of its consultation period with Xbox.
According to Bloomberg, sources familiar with the negotiations stated that Ubisoft is one of three companies in talks to acquire the studio.
Ubisoft is currently undertaking a restructuring of its own, as it continues to organise its studios into six “Creative Houses”.
Arkane’s consultation period was extended from November to December as development on Marvel’s Blade continues. Reports indicated that “several forms of takeover are being considered” for the studio.
Sources also said Xbox has considered selling Arkane Lyon to its management, as it did previously with Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games.
Both developers regained ownership of their IP and publishing rights after being spun out. However, Double Fine cut 23 positions shortly after becoming independent.
Sources told Bloomberg that “terms of the offers weren’t available, and Xbox has not yet come to an agreement with any potential buyer.”
An Xbox spokesperson stated it “is exploring options ahead of a December deadline” and declined further comment.
Xbox previously said it is “keeping the works council and employees informed” of the consultation process, and is “actively seeking a partner to support the next phase of development and enable the commercialisation of the project.”
Arkane was one of five studios Xbox divested as part of CEO Asha Sharma’s restructuring, which included layoffs affecting 3,200 employees.
As mentioned, studio management acquired Double Fine and Compulsion Games, as well as Undead Labs.
Ninja Theory was proposed for closure after two sale agreements fell through. Layoffs subsequently began last month.