Ubisoft Blue Byte

Ubisoft Blue Byte is a German game development company whose work spans strategy games, city-building simulations, AAA co-development and location-based virtual reality. Its development network brings together Ubisoft Düsseldorf, Ubisoft Mainz and Ubisoft Berlin, combining responsibility for established game franchises with contributions to productions across Ubisoft’s international studio network.

Founded as Blue Byte in October 1988 in Mülheim an der Ruhr, the company built its early portfolio around Battle Isle and The Settlers. These series established its longstanding focus on strategy, economic systems and simulation. Ubisoft acquired the business in February 2001. Its subsequent expansion included the integration of Related Designs in June 2014 and the addition of a Berlin studio, officially opened in September 2018.

The three development hubs adopted their individual Ubisoft city brands in August 2019 while continuing to operate within the same company. This structure gives each team a distinct production focus while supporting collaboration across the German network and with other Ubisoft developers.

Development and production

Düsseldorf leads work on The Settlers franchise and develops location-based VR escape experiences, including Beyond Medusa’s Gate and Prince of Persia: The Dagger of Time. Mainz leads development of the Anno franchise, including Anno 1800 and Anno 117: Pax Romana. Berlin contributes systems engineering, procedural world-building and gameplay development to international productions.

Alongside its lead-development projects, the company contributes to games such as Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, Far Cry 6, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora and Skull and Bones. These contributions encompass engineering, gameplay systems, technical integration and other production responsibilities within larger development teams.

Its capabilities cover the game production cycle, from architecture and systems design through environment and character art, narrative, level design and engine programming. The network also supports ongoing releases through maintenance and expansions. Its portfolio therefore combines long-running strategy franchises, collaborative PC and console development, and interactive experiences designed for dedicated VR venues.