The free-to-play Assassin’s Creed mobile game set in China dubbed Assassin’s Creed Jade faces a delay in its release until 2025, as reported by sources close to Reuters.

The delay stems from Tencent’s recent decision to redeploy hundreds of developers who had been dedicated to the game’s development as part of a broader strategic reorientation.

Originally slated for release in 2024, Assassin’s Creed Jade has been in the works for over four years, promising an immersive open-world action-adventure experience. Published under Tencent’s Level Infinite division, the game emerged from a significant partnership between Ubisoft and the Chinese conglomerate in 2022.

Tencent’s recalibration of priorities underscores a shift towards emphasizing in-house titles over external partnerships, particularly with major Western franchises.

This move echoes recent industry trends, exemplified by EA’s decision to discontinue Tencent-developed Apex Legends Mobile last year, citing quality concerns. In another instance, Tencent reportedly scrapped a mobile game based on Square Enix’s Nier series due to challenges in finding a viable monetization model.

Serkan Toto, founder of game industry consultancy Kantan Games, commented on this trend, noting that the allure of intellectual property (IP) as a catalyst for user acquisition has diminished in the mobile gaming landscape.

James Mitchell, Tencent’s chief strategy officer, elaborated on the company’s new direction during an earnings call, highlighting a focus on fewer, higher-budget games. This strategy prioritizes either building upon successful existing IPs or refining gameplay mechanics proven to resonate with niche audiences and scaling them for broader appeal.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the delay of Assassin’s Creed Jade underscores the complexities of game development and the strategic recalibrations undertaken by industry giants like Tencent to navigate an ever-changing landscape. While fans eagerly await the release of Assassin’s Creed Jade, its postponement serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics shaping the future of mobile gaming.