Former Assassin’s Creed Head Reveals Departure from Ubisoft Was Not by Choice

**Marc-Alexis Côté** has worked on the **Assassin’s Creed** series in various roles for over 20 years, eventually becoming the head of the entire franchise in 2022. Recently, it was reported that Côté has left his position, and he has since clarified that this decision was not entirely his own.

In an internal memo, executives at the newly established **Vantage Studios**—a division of **Ubisoft** that has taken over franchises like **Assassin’s Creed**, **Far Cry**, and **Rainbow Six**—informed staff that Côté had been offered a leadership role in the new studio, but he declined and chose to exit the company instead.

Just three days after this news broke, **Marc-Alexis Côté** shared his perspective on the situation. He expressed gratitude to former colleagues who reached out with kind words and mentioned that many were surprised by his decision to leave **Ubisoft**. However, according to Côté, this perception is not entirely accurate, as he would not have willingly stepped down from his previous role.

In his statement, the former leader emphasized that he bears no ill will toward **Ubisoft**, having spent the majority of his career there. The company connected him with talented individuals, enabling him to create incredible worlds alongside them. “I didn’t leave. I continued in my role until **Ubisoft** asked me to step down,” he wrote.

It’s worth noting that in their communication to employees, **Vantage Studios** leaders **Charlie Guillemot** and **Christophe Derennes** expressed disappointment over Côté’s decision to depart. Nevertheless, they stated that they «understand and respect that Côté had his own expectations and priorities regarding the formation and future of **Vantage Studios**.»