Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Ubisoft announced on January 7, 2026, that it would close its Halifax, Nova Scotia, studio, affecting 71 positions. The announcement followed workers’ unionization drive and a December vote in favor of representation by CWA Canada. Ubisoft said the closure was part of a broader restructuring; CWA Canada alleged it was intended to keep out the union. The reported settlement between the parties does not make the disputed motive public.
What happened at Ubisoft Halifax?
Ubisoft Halifax workers announced on June 18, 2025, that they were organizing with CWA Canada, also known as the Game and Media Workers Guild of Canada, CWA Canada Local 30111. They said collective action would give employees a meaningful voice with decision-makers. CWA Canada’s announcement described the organizing effort.
CWA Canada said ballots were counted on December 18, 2025, and showed overwhelming support for unionization. CityNews reported that nearly 74% of employees voted in favor. On January 7, 2026, Ubisoft announced it was closing the Halifax studio, affecting 71 positions. The studio had worked on Assassin’s Creed: Rebellion. CityNews’ January 7 report relayed the company’s closure announcement and the vote figure.
Why did Ubisoft say it was closing the studio?
Ubisoft presented the closure as part of a wider restructuring and cost-optimization effort. In a statement published by CityNews, the company said: “Over the past 24 months, Ubisoft has undertaken company-wide actions to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.” Ubisoft’s corporate restructuring announcement described broader studio-footprint adjustments and cost reductions, placing Halifax within that company-wide context.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute#1 Best Overall
- BECOME A FEARSOME PIRATE- Strike fear in your foes as you board and sink enemy vessels as Edward Kenway, captain of the Jackdaw. Whether blending into crowds or leading daring assaults, switch between silent takedowns and fierce brawls as you effortlessly wield swords, pistols, and the Hidden Blade. With a cast of historical pirate legends at your side, defy empires amidst the age-old conflict opposing Assassins and Templars.
- A CLASSIC REBUILT FOR AN ENHANCED EXPERIENCE- Combat has been rebuilt for more dynamic encounters, emphasizing parries and takedowns, while stealth and parkour have been improved for smoother escapes and assassinations. Continuously upgrade the Jackdaw to face powerful enemy ships with enhanced naval mechanics featuring new alternate fire modes. Quality-of-life additions also address previous pain points, ensuring your experience is improved.
- THE CARIBBEAN LIKE NEVER BEFORE- Whether you’re sailing the open seas or journeying across untamed lands, discover a seamless open world built with the latest Anvil engine. Take in sweeping vistas as you brave stormy waters, dive into underwater shipwrecks, or push through dense tropical jungles. Enhanced by features such as Dolby Atmos and ray tracing, every scene feels more immersive, bringing the world’s beauty to life.
- EXPANDING EDWARD’S ADVENTURE- Building on top of the original story, Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced introduces exclusive new content. Familiar faces will return, with new storylines dedicated to fan-favorite characters such as Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet. Unexpected allies will also cross your path, as three officers join you on your journey as part of the main narrative. More surprises await, such as new sea shanties, pets, a photo mode, and more.
That context establishes Ubisoft’s stated rationale, but it does not independently show when the Halifax decision was made or prove the motive for it. CWA Canada initially said the timing raised questions without asserting that unionization caused the closure. President Carmel Smyth said, “We will pursue every legal recourse to ensure that the rights of these workers are respected and not infringed in any way.” CWA Canada’s January 7 response set out the union’s initial position.
What did the union’s complaint allege?
On January 13, CWA Canada said it had filed a complaint with the Nova Scotia Labour Board, alleging Ubisoft closed the studio to keep out the union. CWA Canada also reported that Ubisoft denied a connection to unionization and pointed to declining revenue and restructuring. The union said it sought records to support the company’s financial explanation. CWA Canada’s complaint announcement describes the allegation and the company’s reported response.
Rank #2
- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content includes the base game and Sekiryu Character Pack
- Explore the captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes. Adventure through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments.
- Become Naoe, a shinobi Assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai, as you experience their riveting stories and master their complementary playstyles.
- Make information your weapon as you explore the world, and build your own network of spies to be your eyes and ears across locations to hunt down your next target. Along the way, recruit new allies with unique abilities to help accomplish your missions.
- Create a fully customizable hideout for your growing shinobi league as you train your crew, craft new gear, interact with key characters, and choose your base’s layout, decorations, and accessories.
The sequence of organizing, a union vote and closure is documented; the parties’ explanations for the closure differ. The available reporting does not establish a final Labour Board determination resolving the disputed motive.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is known about the settlement?
CWA Canada reported on April 14, 2026, that workers approved a negotiated settlement. It said the terms, including compensation, are confidential. The reported settlement therefore does not reveal an amount, detailed provisions, or whether Ubisoft made an admission. CWA Canada President Carmel Smyth called the negotiation “not an easy negotiation,” adding that Ubisoft “respected the union, and acted in a good faith and professional manner.” Former employee Jon Huffman said the closure “came as a surprise to all of us and to the front-line managers” while teams were working on ongoing and new projects. CWA Canada’s April 14 report contains the settlement update and comments.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- A BRASH REBEL ASSASSIN: Become Edward Kenway, a charismatic yet brutal pirate captain, trained by Assassins. Edward can effortlessly switch between the Hidden Blade of the Assassin's Order and all new weaponry including four flintock pistols and dual cutlass swords
- EXPLORE AN OPEN WORLD FILLED WITH OPPORTUNITIES: Discover the most diverse Assassin's Creed world ever created. From Kingston to Nassau, explore 50 unique locations where you can live the life of a pirate
- BECOME THE MOST FEARED PIRATE IN THE CARIBBEAN: Command your ship, the Jackdaw, and strike fear in all who see her. Plunder and pillage to upgrade the Jackdaw with ammunition and equipment needed to fight off enemy ships
- EXPERIENCE THE GRITTY REALITY BEHIND THE PIRATE FANTASY: Stand amongst legendary names such as Blackbeard and Benjamin Hornigold, as you establish a lawless Republic in the Bahamas and relive the truly explosive events that defined the Golden Age of Pirates
- MULTIPLAYER EXPERIENCE: Play with your friends in the ruthless and critically acclaimed multiplayer experience. Choose from an eclectic cast of characters from the Golden Age of Pirates and fight to the death in exotic locations
Rank #3
- Includes both Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag and Assassin’s Creed Rogue, plus all single-player DLC.
- Become the most feared pirate in the Caribbean in Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag. Take part in an award-winning naval experience and explore a massive open world.
- Become the ultimate assassin hunter in Assassin’s Creed Rogue, and play as a Templar for the first time in franchise history.
- Additional bonus content: Black Beard: The Lost Journal (pp. 1– 55) and Assassin’s Creed: Awakening Volumes 1 & 2.
- Experience enhanced features like handheld mode, HD Rumble, a touch screen interface, and motion control aiming.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
