How Ubisoft Philippines is Leveling Up the Local Gaming Industry

Photo Source: Ubisoft Philippines

In the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig, stands Ubisoft Philippines, a beacon of the nation’s burgeoning video game industry. Established in 2016, this studio has rapidly evolved from a small studio to a powerhouse of creativity and innovation, playing a pivotal role in the development of AAA titles that captivate gamers worldwide.

The studio’s new office in BGC is more than just a workspace; it’s a testament to the vibrant and dynamic culture that Ubisoft fosters. The open-plan design encourages collaboration among its diverse team of more than a hundred professionals, including artists, designers, programmers, animators, audio experts, and quality assurance specialists and more. The environment is infused with creative quirks and playful elements, reflecting the spirit of the country and its developers.

JP Tan, the Studio Art Director, passionately believes in the untapped potential of Filipino talent.

“With so much untapped talent here in the Philippines, it just makes sense to come and develop the industry. Not only do we provide training for our teams, but we also send them on trips to other Ubisoft studios to learn about the AAA standard. From a small team of artists, they have now become the seniors, leads and managers making a remarkable impact on our games. Our studio has now shipped 11 AAA games along with DLCs and expansions, and this is in large part due to our passionate team of developers.”

Building a Thriving Game Development Community

Ubisoft Philippines is not merely a participant in game development; it is a catalyst for growth in the local industry. JP’s vision extends beyond the studio’s walls:

“Ubisoft coming here proves that the local industry is trending upwards. With our knowledge of AAA quality, we seek to share that expertise to create an environment of growth for the industry.”

JP emphasizes that beyond the technical aspects of development, storytelling plays a major role in crafting meaningful gaming experiences.

“Coming from a more personal note, a lot of us here in the Philippines have their own story and experiences to tell. And you know what’s interesting about it? That’s where unique gameplay experiences come from. That’s where our own human touch comes in. For example, when our team works on the game world, our level artists and level designers draw from their experiences and blend that with the creative vision of the game to design something more personal and engaging.”

Ubisoft Philippines and Assassin’s Creed Shadows

One of the most anticipated projects is Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set to release on March 20, 2025. This installment continues the franchise’s legacy, immersing players in feudal Japan with intertwined narratives of a shinobi assassin and an African warrior. Ubisoft Philippines made a significant contribution in bringing this rich, historical world to life, showcasing the depth of Filipino talent on a global stage. 

“Our players are excited for Assassin’s Creed Shadows and our team is proud to show all the great work that we’ve done.”

When asked about the possibility of featuring Filipino history in future games, JP remains optimistic yet measured.

“History is our playground. Our homegrown team of developers draw a lot of inspiration from our Ubisoft Brands and personal experiences.”

A Future of Filipino-Made Games?

The idea of an Assassin’s Creed installment inspired by Philippine history is certainly intriguing, but for now, Ubisoft Philippines continues to refine its expertise through global franchises. 

“The Philippines is a country of storytellers. Whether it’s through art, movies, or games, we have a rich culture and history that is just waiting to be explored in interactive media. It’s only a matter of time before we see more Filipino-driven stories take center stage.”

As the studio looks ahead, the focus remains on delivering exceptional gaming experiences while fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem for game development in the Philippines. With each project, Ubisoft Philippines not only contributes to the global gaming industry but also paves the way for future generations of Filipino game developers to share their stories with the world.