Ubisoft is shutting down its free-to-play shooter, XDefiant, in June 2025. This announcement brings an end to the game's short lifespan and raises questions about the future for its players.
XDefiant Server Shutdown: June 2025
The Sunset Process Begins
Ubisoft will officially shut down XDefiant servers on June 3, 2025. The shutdown process begins December 3, 2024, preventing new players from downloading, registering, or purchasing the game and its DLC. Ubisoft is committed to refunding in-game purchases.
"Players who purchased the Ultimate Founders Pack will receive a full refund. Refunds for VC and DLC purchases made since November 3, 2024, will also be issued. Please allow up to 8 weeks for processing. Refunds should be completed by January 28, 2025. Contact Ubisoft for assistance if you haven't received your refund by then." Note that only the Ultimate Founder’s Pack is eligible for a refund; Founder’s Pack and Founder’s Pack Elite purchases are not refundable.
Why is XDefiant Shutting Down?
Marie-Sophie Waubert, Ubisoft's Chief Studios and Portfolio Officer, explained that XDefiant failed to meet player retention targets in the highly competitive free-to-play market. The game fell short of achieving the necessary player base and engagement to justify further investment.
Team Transitions and Studio Closures
Approximately half of XDefiant's team will transition to other roles within Ubisoft. However, the San Francisco and Osaka studios will close, and the Sydney studio will significantly downsize, resulting in job losses for 143 employees in San Francisco and 134 in Osaka and Sydney. This follows previous layoffs in August 2024 affecting 45 employees across American studios and 33 in Toronto. Ubisoft is providing severance packages and career assistance to affected employees.
A Positive Reflection Despite Closure
Despite an initial successful launch with 5 million users and a total of 15 million players throughout its run, XDefiant ultimately didn't achieve the sustained profitability Ubisoft required. While the game's executive producer, Mark Rubin, acknowledges the disappointment, he highlights the positive aspects of the community and the open communication between players and developers. He expresses gratitude for the game's passionate community.
Season 3 Release Despite Shutdown
Season 3 of XDefiant will launch as planned, although details are limited. Speculation points towards content from the Assassin's Creed franchise. However, access will be limited to players who purchased the game before December 3, 2024, due to the sunsetting process. A previous blog post detailing Season 3's content has been removed from the official website.
Early Reports of XDefiant's Struggles
Insider Gaming reported on August 29, 2024, that low player counts were contributing to XDefiant's struggles. While initially denied, the shutdown announcement confirms these concerns. The release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 between Seasons 2 and 3 may have further impacted XDefiant's player base.
