Benoit Richer, game director on Assassin's Creed Hexe, has left Ubisoft to co-found indie studio Servo Games in Quebec. His departure marks the second director-level exit from the project this year, following creative director Clint Hocking's exit two months ago. Ubisoft states that development continues with a seasoned team.
Benoit Richer announced his departure from Assassin's Creed Hexe, as first spotted by Rock, Paper, Shotgun. He has joined Quebec-based Servo Games as co-founder and game director, working with fellow Ubisoft veterans Luc Tremblay, Danny Marcoux, and Alex Droun. Richer stated, 'This is the beginning of a new chapter. Proud to contribute to the Quebec creative ecosystem and help it grow.' He promised more details on his new project soon but provided none at this time. Ubisoft confirmed in February that creative director Clint Hocking had left the project. A spokesperson said, 'We sincerely thank [Clint] for his vision, creative contributions, and dedication over the years, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter.' The company added that work on Assassin's Creed Hexe continues with a seasoned team and will deliver something distinctive within the franchise. Jean Guesdon, head of content for the Assassin's Creed brand, was appointed as the new creative director. Internet tipster @xj0nathan reported that Guesdon has removed all 'magical' elements from Hexe, including a planned feature to control a cat, which has since been cancelled. Other departures include former franchise lead Marc-Alexis Côté, who left in October after being asked to step aside and is reportedly suing Ubisoft as of January. Assassin's Creed Hexe, announced in 2022 with a theme inspired by European witchcraft, has no release date yet.