What Should We Expect To See At Ubisoft’s 2017 E3 Conference?: An Analysis
Maybe its just me, but Ubisoft seems a bit emptier heading into this E3 than previous years. As always, that adds onto the element of surprise, so here are our best educated guesses on what can be shown on top of already announced games.
We’ve also sorted the list into three categories, Likely, Somewhat Likely, and Unlikely, based off of sources and probable speculation.
Likely:
Assassin’s Creed Origins:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 10–15 minutes
Reasoning: Sure it appeared at Microsoft’s conference, but Ubisoft has always had a pattern of double-dipping when it comes to their biggest tiles, and they need to make a splash following Assassin’s Creeds off-year. It is very likely gameplay won’t be shown for a second time however, so look forward to the likes of a story/narrative trailer.
Far Cry 5:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 10–15 minutes
Reasoning: It may be launching in early 2018, but Ubisoft has shown plenty of Far Cry 5, and that isn’t stopping anytime soon. Get ready for lengthy gameplay demo(es), likely showing off why the Montana setting adds something new to the Far Cry series. Also don’t expect Ubisoft to shy away from any potential controversy the game presents.
Just Dance 2018:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: Ubisoft’s mentions of Just Dance games at E3 have become shorter and shorter over the years, but its nevertheless a given to see it some form. There will also be a note about the game’s Nintendo Switch version, added onto Ubisoft’s already confirmed support.
The Crew 2:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 5–10 minutes
Reasoning: Ubisoft has done a whole lot more than confirming this game’s sequel besides showing it, so expect to see plenty of The Crew 2. This means, gameplay, CG trailers, etc and even a more in-depth look on the game’s mechanics and play-styles.
South Park The Fractured But Whole:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 5–10 minutes
Reasoning: This is the third E3 for South Park: The Fractured But Whole, but besides for a couple pranky promotions here and there, Ubisoft has mostly been mum. Expect that to change, and probably some shots at our current culture/climate too.
A new AAA multiplayer IP:
Chance of appearing: 100/100
Expected Runtime: 5–10 minutes
Reasoning: Hidden along The Crew 2 and Far Cry 5 pre-announcements was the tease that Ubisoft is working on a brand new IP, which could be developed by any one of the studios responsible for Rainbow Six Siege, The Division, and more. What we’re thinking will be shown is likely a CG trailer, with more information to follow in the coming year.
Rayman Legends Definitive Edition:
Chance of appearing: 80/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: The Nintendo Switch’s success has made companies more adamant to express details of their ports/games for the system, and we believe that Ubisoft will do the same. This game is probably the most likely to fall in this case, as there are plenty of new features Ubisoft could implement.
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle:
Chance of appearing: 80/100
Expected Runtime: 5–10 minutes
Reasoning: We’re saying there’s a 20% chance this doesn’t show up only if Ubisoft lets Nintendo show it off more at their upcoming Direct, but it would be weird to not receive a mention, especially with all the leaks. Plus, it would be a fun game to present among the more typical Ubisoft AAA fare.
Steep for Nintendo Switch:
Chance of appearing: 70/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: If this does show, it likely won’t be a full presentation, rather falling into something along the lines of a sizzle reel. However, we will probably get a release date, as loads of already announced Nintendo Switch ports are getting the same treatment this E3.
Monopoly for Nintendo Switch:
Chance of appearing: 70/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: The same goes for Monopoly as does Steep, although this game is a bit more concrete on getting a release date, as its a bit easier to produce and market (It has the Monopoly license after all). There may also be new Nintendo Switch features present.
Somewhat Likely:
Unannounced Nintendo Switch game:
Chance of appearing: 65/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes/5–10 minutes
Reasoning: A showcase of this title all depends on if Ubisoft had early confidence in the Nintendo Switch, or if they want to announce something to get the word out/cause hype. If anything is shown, it won’t be very concrete (ex: no gameplay).
Unannounced Ubisoft movie adaptations:
Chance of appearing: 60/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes/5–10 minutes
Reasoning: The announcement of a Watch Dogs movie and a behind the scenes for the Assassin’s Creed film adaptation was an integral part of Ubisoft’s last E3, and it may play in here as well. Unfortunately, there isn’t too much to talk about, unless Ubisoft is expressing the transfer of a franchise or two.
Unannounced The Division sequel:
Chance of appearing: 50/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: This game is probably pretty early, so if it is shown, don’t expect to see too much. By this I mean not just a story/CG trailer, but likely a logo and couple flashes, or something just as vague as that. After all, there still giving DLC to it even though it launched back in 2016.
Unannounced Rainbow Six Siege game sequel:
Chance of appearing: 50/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: The same goes for Rainbow Six Siege as does The Division, but Ubisoft might do a tie-in with the first game since the fanbase is so competitive/hungry. Basically, expect anything besides a spinoff or full expansion.
Unlikely:
Unannounced Rocksmith game:
Chance of appearing: 15/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: It’s dead Jim.
Unannounced Ubisoft Leamington project:
Chance of appearing: 15/100
Expected Runtime: 1–5 minutes
Reasoning: This studio just opened, so there would be practically nothing to show besides for concept footage/developers developing. There might be a mention of the studio alongside a lot of other Ubisoft helpers/new additions to the Ubisoft family though.
