[Multi] Patrice Désilets reportedly fired by Ubisoft after they snagged him back

During the collapse of THQ, Ubisoft expressed interest in acquiring some of THQ's properties. However, they didn't stop there and managed to snap up roughly 170 staff from THQ Montréal as the dust settled; among these 170 staff members was Patrice Désilets.

For those who don't know Patrice Désilets worked with Ubisoft to design the first two Assassin's Creed titles before departing to work on new projects. There was a lot of controversy over the acquisition of THQ Montréal staff with many wondering if Désilets would return to work for Ubisoft. In the end, he did end up joining the company but that relationship seems to have already concluded.

Kotaku received a statement from Ubisoft confirming that Désilets had departed once again.

“The acquisition of THQ Montréal in January allowed Ubisoft to welcome 170 experienced developers, including Patrice Désilets, to our existing and renowned workforce," said an Ubisoft representative.

"Unfortunately, since the acquisition, the good faith discussions between Patrice and Ubisoft aimed at aligning Patrice’s and the studio’s visions have been inconclusive. As a result, Patrice has left the studio. Our priorities remain with the teams already hard at work on projects in development. They are at the root of Ubisoft Montréal’s past and future successes.”

So, what's going on? Well, Désilets was working on a new game called 1666 during his time at THQ Montréal but Ubisoft currently refuses to comment on the fate of this project now that Désilets has left.

Speaking of which, Désilets also threw out a comment today claiming that he was fired and that the decision did not appear to be mutual.

"Contrary to any statements made earlier today, this morning I was terminated by Ubisoft. I was notified of this termination in person, handed a termination notice and was unceremoniously escorted out of the building by two guards without being able to say goodbye to my team or collect my personal belongings," said Désilets. "This was not my decision."

"Ubisoft’s actions are baseless and without merit. I intend to fight Ubisoft vigorously for my rights, for my team and for my game."

I feel like this is only the start of a struggle between Ubisoft and Désilets, but we'll have to wait and see what unfolds over the next few days.

Written by: Kyran Morrison

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