Ubisoft is reportedly among several companies attempting to acquire Arkane Lyon from Microsoft, raising fresh hope for the studio behind Dishonored and the upcoming Marvel’s Blade. No deal has been agreed, however, and the game’s future remains tied to the studio’s uncertain ownership.
Arkane Lyon, the French developer known for Dishonored, Dishonored 2 and Deathloop, has reportedly attracted multiple offers from potential buyers as Microsoft explores options for the studio.
According to Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, Ubisoft has submitted an offer, alongside at least two other gaming companies. The other interested parties have not been identified, and the terms of the offers have not been disclosed.
No buyer has been confirmed
It is important to stress that this is not a confirmed acquisition. Bloomberg’s report says Microsoft has received offers, but no agreement has been reached with any potential buyer. The company has also reportedly considered a management buyout, which could see Arkane Lyon become an independent studio.
The reported interest follows months of uncertainty for the 217-person studio. Microsoft previously extended the consultation period surrounding Arkane’s future by one month, moving the deadline from 13 November to 13 December 2026.
A Microsoft representative told PC Gamer that the extension would allow the company to explore options, including finding a partner to support the studio through the remaining development work. Microsoft described the extension as a defined one and said it would continue to keep Arkane’s Works Council informed.
What happens to Marvel’s Blade?
Arkane Lyon is currently developing Marvel’s Blade, a single-player action game announced at The Game Awards in December 2023. The project was revealed with a cinematic announcement trailer, but gameplay, a release date and a launch window have yet to be shared publicly.
Microsoft’s search for a buyer has also included the possibility of finding a partner to help support the game’s remaining development. A successful sale could give the project a clearer path forward, but there is no confirmed agreement guaranteeing that outcome.
For now, the bids represent a potentially important lifeline for Arkane Lyon and its staff, rather than a resolution. Ubisoft is the only bidder named in Bloomberg’s report; who the other interested companies are, and whether Microsoft will accept any offer, remains unknown.
With the consultation period now due to run until 13 December, the next few weeks could prove decisive for one of gaming’s most recognisable immersive-sim studios, and for the future of Marvel’s Blade.
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