The gaming industry now offers a diverse array of experiences, including massive AAA open-world adventures, narrative-driven titles, and smaller-scale Indie games. Ubisoft, known for its sprawling 100-hour epics, has demonstrated with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown and Assassin's Creed Mirage that it doesn't need to rely solely on large-scale projects.
With playtimes of around 20-30 hours, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown and Assassin's Creed Mirage are shorter than most recent Ubisoft releases, such as Assassin's Creed Valhalla, which takes over 60 hours to complete. However, these smaller-scale adventures still offer substantial value.
A Shift in Gaming Paradigm
Reevaluating the Notion of Size in Gaming
In the early days of video games, a title's size often correlated with its perceived value. More levels, mechanics, and playable characters signified a hit. As gaming technology advanced, this trend continued, especially with the rise of open-world games, leading many to believe that bigger meant better value.
Ubisoft, known for its large-scale franchises like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry, quickly embraced the open-world trend. While these games have been successful, the market has become oversaturated, with the sheer volume of content often feeling repetitive and uninspired.
Uncovering Value in Smaller-Scale Games
Despite Ubisoft's continued focus on large-scale open-world titles, its recent releases have proven that smaller-scale games can offer equal, if not more, value. Assassin's Creed Mirage, released in October last year, marked a return to the franchise's roots, demonstrating a strong demand for a simpler experience. The game's shorter length worked in its favor, highlighting the desire for concise, engaging gameplay.
The newly launched Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown has revitalized the franchise after a failed attempt to transition to an open-world format. Despite offering less content than a title like AC Valhalla, its well-crafted gameplay and narrative create a more immersive experience for players.