Ubisoft and two others bid for Arkane as Xbox deadline nears
Bloomberg reports Arkane's own management could also buy the studio, and that a deal would let it finish work on Blade.
Ubisoft has made a bid to acquire Arkane from Microsoft, and two other gaming companies have also submitted offers for the studio, according to Bloomberg. Arkane's own management is a further potential buyer as Xbox weighs its options.
Xbox has not formalised a deal with any of the potential buyers. An Xbox spokesperson told Bloomberg the company is exploring its options ahead of a December deadline, without further comment. Ubisoft reportedly declined to comment.
That deadline falls on December 13. Under French labour laws, companies with more than 1000 staff must search for a buyer for three months before shutting down, which sets the final date for a deal.
According to Bloomberg, a sale would allow Arkane to finish work on Blade, the game the studio has in development.
Earlier Xbox cuts
In July, it was announced that Double Fine, Undead Labs and Compulsion would leave Xbox and go indie. Ninja Theory was also part of those cuts and is reportedly expected to shut down. Thousands of Xbox staff were laid off in July, with more layoffs in September and further rounds reportedly coming this month and in January.
Quick answers
Which companies have bid for Arkane?
Bloomberg reports that Ubisoft and two other gaming companies have made bids, and that Arkane's own management is also a potential buyer.
What is the deadline for an Arkane deal?
December 13, set by French labour rules requiring companies with over 1000 staff to seek a buyer for three months before shutting down.
What game is Arkane working on?
Arkane is developing Blade, which a deal would allow the studio to finish.