Ubisoft was founded in France in March 1986 by the Guillemot brothers. Initially a PC game distributor and developer, the company published early titles such as Zombi, Election, and Psycho. It has since grown into one of the largest video game publishers in the world.
During its formative years, the company secured crucial distribution contracts, notably handling Nintendo software and hardware distribution in France. This partnership associated the publisher with early console releases such as
Tennis (1984),
Tennis [5 Screw] (1985),
Tennis (1985),
Tennis (1986),
Tennis (1986), and
Tennis (1989). These distribution rights helped fund the transition into internal game development.
In 1995, the debut of
Rayman established a flagship intellectual property, leading to global expansion with new studios in Shanghai and Montreal. The acquisition of Red Storm Entertainment in 2000 secured the Tom Clancy license, spawning successful tactical shooter franchises. The company further solidified its industry standing by acquiring the
Prince of Persia brand, which paved the way for the creation of the critically acclaimed
Assassin's Creed series in 2007. Today, the publisher maintains a vast network of international development studios, focusing on open-world games and live-service multiplayer titles.