Splinter Cell is the Franchise Ubisoft Mistreated as it Seems the Devs Really Aren’t Sure What to Do With It Anymore

For many gamers, Splinter Cell is a name synonymous with stealth, strategy, and the iconic night vision goggles of Sam Fisher. Once a flagship franchise, fans have only known uncertainty and neglect in recent times.

Despite a loyal fanbase and consistent calls for a revival, Ubisoft has repeatedly fumbled its management of the series. From failed development cycles to mixed responses on newer titles, it’s evident that the studio is struggling to find the right direction for the franchise. 

Is The Blame for Splinter Cell’s Downfall on Ubisoft?

The decline of Splinter Cell began with a series of missteps from Ubisoft. Despite strong sales for early titles, the franchise began to wane after the release of Blacklist in 2013.

This game, while innovative in some respects, didn’t resonate with long-time fans due to changes in gameplay and tone. The change in voice actor for Sam Fisher also sparked controversy, adding to the sense of disconnection.

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The studio’s focus has shifted to other ventures, leaving Sam Fisher to make cameo appearances in other games, like Rainbow Six Siege, rather than starring in his own title. Fans also point out Ubisoft’s treatment of other franchises. Beyond Good and Evil, a title with significantly fewer entries and a less extensive fan base, has seen more consistent attention.

The community’s response has been a mix of resignation and hope. On forums like Reddit, fans reminisce about the glory days of the franchise while criticizing the studio’s current strategy. Many argue that the focus on open-world, microtransaction-heavy games is incompatible with the linear, narrative-driven nature of the franchise. 

This franchise is drowning in the ocean after Ubisoft threw it away just like those goggles
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Despite the disappointment, the community has remained active, contributing its efforts to keep the series alive. A notable example is the fan-made RTX Remix Mod for the original game, which showcases what the game could look like with modern graphics.

Yes, There’s a Remake on the Way, but Will It Change Anything?

The absence of Splinter Cell from recent Ubisoft Forward presentations has only deepened the community’s despair. Each no-show is a painful reminder of the franchise’s uncertain future. Fans are left in a state of limbo, unsure whether their beloved series will ever receive the attention it deserves. 

Splinter cell fans are partially to blame for the current state the franchise is in.
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Interestingly, some fans believe they bear part of the blame for the series’ current state. They argue that the vocal backlash against changes in the franchise may have discouraged the studio from further investing in it. The criticism over voice actor and gameplay changes might have discouraged the studio. 

Ultimately, the fate of the franchise lies in Ubisoft’s hands. Despite the bleak situation, there’s still hope among fans that the announced remake will renew the series. A return to its roots, with a focus on stealth and storytelling, could reignite interest and restore faith among long-time fans. 

The studio’s apparent indecision and neglect have left a once-proud series floundering. But the passionate community of fans continues to hold out hope for a revival. But will it ever come?

What do you think the future holds for this beloved series? Let us know in the comments!