Game release delays are nothing unusual, but Ubisoft's "Splinter Cell: Conviction," once tagged to debut in 2007, now occupies a calendar slot in the first quarter of 2010. The recession and recent console price drops have both impacted the marketplace, and publishers are hoping that the latter will have a positive effect going into the new year. But even with that extra help, Ubisoft's head expects that some games my drift further into the future.
"Well, now we have a situation where there are a lot of good games due for release in the first half of next year," Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot told MCV. "The first half of 2010 is looking pretty crazy, so I expect some movement from the other players -- some of those delayed games will be moved again."
Guillemot cited the upcoming "Splinter Cell" sequel as an example of a game that should benefit from delays, even if its audience has to wait.
"We want it to be an excellent game because the other games that are coming out are getting better all the time," Guillemot said. "So we said why not? If we can delay it and benefit, then that's a good thing. Plus, there are loads of great games coming out this side of Christmas."
"Bayonetta" and "Dark Void" are among Ubisoft's announced games for 2010 that could fulfill Guillemot's prophecy, though he didn't call out any titles by name. "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2" from Activision certainly appears at face value to be direct competitor with "Conviction," but only time and sales numbers will know for sure.
As far as the release delay predictions go, however, you can probably expect rain somewhere in Florida in 2010 as well.
Are you surprised to hear that some Ubisoft releases may be moved in 2010? What kind of expectations do you have for "Splinter Cell: Conviction"? Share your reactions in the comment section below.