Ubisoft’s belovedSplinter Cellfranchise has taken a back seat in recent years but with the announcement of a remake, players are desperately waiting for an update on Sam Fisher’s return. Announced in 2021, the development studio Ubisoft Toronto has been very quiet when it comes to discussing the project, leading many to fear the worst. According to insiders, the game is still happening and while it won’t be released any time soon,Ubisoft may already have a launch window in mind.
PerInsider Gaming,theSplinter Cellremake is being produced under the codename “North” and is looking to drop in 2026. Further insight into the project is limited but it’s also claimed that the game is being developed in the Snowdrop Engine which was most recently used for Ubisoft’sStar Wars Outlaws. It’s worth bearing in mind that when the remake was first announced it was still incredibly early in its development cycle, so it stands to reason that Ubisoft Toronto hasn’t shared much in the last few years; As 2026 inches closer, Ubisoft will likely share more official updates.
Is The Splinter Cell Remake Enough To Save Ubisoft?
The Company Is In Dire Straits
Ubisoft has been having a rough time lately as its recent releases have failed to impress both fans and critics. Aside from the excellentPrince of Persia: The Lost Crown, the company started 2024 with the disappointing live-service gameSkull and Bonesand continued a downward trend withXDefiantandStar Wars Outlaws.The former two titles faired decently among reviewers but failed to deliver the numbers Ubisoft wanted. Given theincreasing demand forSplinter Cell’s returnand the legacy attached to the franchise, Ubisoft is likely hoping the remake will helpit save face amongst players.
Ubisoft is in the process of revamping its launch methods as it pivots away from Ubisoft Connect exclusives on PCand returns to Steam. Beginning withAssassin’s Creed: Shadows, it seems that all upcoming Ubisoft titles will be released on Ubisoft Connect, the Epic Games Store, and Steam simultaneously. Given Steam’s popularity, it makes sense to return to where most players will likely purchase the game, especially when Ubisoft Connect is almost universally hated.
Splinter Cell Remake Not Being Open World Is The Right Call
Ubisoft is developing a Splinter Cell revival, which will not contain open-world environment gameplay and will update Splinter Cell’s gameplay.
Screen Rant’s Take: Splinter Cell Won’t Be Enough
Ubisoft Needs More Than One Great Game
While it’s currently impossible to say whether the remake ofSplinter Cellwill be good,Ubisoft’s reputation requires more than a single release. The shift back onto Steam is a decent first step but the company’s approach to monetization needs a serious re-evaluation. I have plenty of love for Ubisoft’s classic titles and I think there is a chance that it redeems itself but before that happens,a change in direction is required.
