Ubisoft's upcoming Assassin's Creed Codename Hexe has reportedly suffered another internal delay, potentially pushing its release to 2028, while new leaks suggest the publisher is developing a separate Assassin's Creed title set in Ancient Rome. The developments come as Ubisoft continues restructuring its franchise strategy, with multiple projects reportedly in development, including an additional mobile game.
According to Insider Gaming's Tom Henderson, sources familiar with Ubisoft's development plans indicate that Hexe has experienced production difficulties, resulting in an internal delay of approximately 1 year. Previously rumored for a mid 2027 release, the game is now reportedly targeting 2028. However, Ubisoft has never officially announced a release date, meaning the postponement remains an internal scheduling change rather than a confirmed public delay.
Originally announced in 2022, Hexe is expected to deliver a darker Assassin's Creed experience centered on European witch trials, departing from the expansive RPG formula established by Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla. The project has also experienced leadership changes, including the departure of creative director Clint Hocking and game director Benoit Richer. Veteran franchise developer Jean Guesdon subsequently assumed creative leadership. In its official October 2026 franchise update, Ubisoft acknowledged that development was progressing but additional work remained, confirming that more information would arrive in 2027.
Meanwhile, French content creator j0nathan has revealed information about another unannounced Assassin's Creed project, reportedly identified internally as Codename Mars. According to his sources, the game would take place in Ancient Rome, potentially exploring events surrounding Julius Caesar's assassination and the rise of Augustus. One possibility involves Aya, also known as Amunet, returning from Assassin's Creed Origins to establish the foundations of the Hidden Ones in Rome. However, the proposed storyline remains speculation rather than confirmed development information.
Another theory suggests Codename Mars could connect to Ubisoft's upcoming Assassin's Creed Netflix series, which takes place during the Roman Empire. Although Ubisoft has confirmed that production of the television adaptation is approaching completion, no connection between the series and the rumored game has been announced. Ancient Rome would also provide a different historical setting from Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, which explored Renaissance era Rome rather than the ancient empire.
The leaks additionally mention Codename Pocket, a potential mobile Assassin's Creed project set in Jerusalem. The game reportedly focuses on shorter challenges rather than a traditional open world experience. Insider Gaming acknowledged hearing both project codenames but could not independently verify their development details. Codename Mars may also be several years away, with industry sources suggesting that substantial information might not emerge until 2029 or 2030.
For now, Ubisoft has officially confirmed only that Hexe remains in development, with its next major reveal planned for 2027. Neither the reported 2028 release window nor the existence of Codename Mars and Pocket has been publicly confirmed.
A potential delay to 2028 is disappointing, particularly considering Hexe was first announced in 2022. However, its darker setting and possible departure from the increasingly expansive RPG formula could provide the creative direction Assassin's Creed needs.
The possibility of returning to Ancient Rome is equally interesting, especially if Ubisoft revisits Aya and expands the narrative established in Origins. Nevertheless, the publisher should prioritize delivering complete, polished experiences rather than expanding the franchise through too many simultaneous projects.
Ubisoft has an opportunity to rebuild confidence by focusing on stronger storytelling, meaningful stealth mechanics, and technical optimization. Another Assassin's Creed release will only be worthwhile if it delivers a distinct experience rather than repeating the same formula.
Would you prefer Assassin's Creed Hexe to deliver a darker, more traditional stealth experience, or are you more interested in returning to Ancient Rome with Aya as the protagonist?
