Casual ambitions shape Ubisoft's future

Sales for its Q3 hit €495m, down just 2.7 per cent compared to the same period in 2008.

The company was keen to stress its upcoming roster of online launches that includes Might & Magic Heroes Kingdoms, Trackmania 2 and Imagine Town – a spin-off from its successful girl-focused DS software IP.

Ubisoft will also look to capitalise on the surprise success of Wii title Just Dance, though it reiterated its desire to distance itself from Nintendo’s DS – a platform it has struggled on in recent times.

“Ubisoft continues to refocus its high-end games strategy by concentrating on more regular releases for its major franchises,” a statement read.

“These refocusing measures also comprise a reduction in new creations investments, which will enable Ubisoft to rebalance its existing resources on a constant headcount basis. This strategy will provide heightened visibility and profitability with a lower level of risk.”