Ubisoft Slams Content Leaker After AI-Altered Screenshot From Upcoming Assassin's Creed Multiplayer Game Posted Online
Ubisoft has taken the rare step of publicly rebuking a prominent content leaker after an AI-manipulated screenshot of the upcoming multiplayer title, Assassin’s Creed Invictus, began circulating on social media.
The controversy started when an X user known as xj0nathan, who is known for posting unannounced content, posted an image claiming to show a first look at the spinoff. The screenshot depicted a character in historical attire standing in a sparsely textured arena, which is a clear sign of a work-in-progress build. However, the official Assassin’s Creed account quickly fired back, labeling the post as "misinformation."
"Nice try... This might have started as an image from our private test, but it’s been heavily altered (most probably with AI)," Ubisoft wrote. "Not great to spread misinformation. 👎 For those genuinely curious about the project: we’ll share more when the time is right!"
In a bizarre turn of events, xj0nathan admitted the image had been modified using AI tools, claiming he did so to "liven up the colors" and remove watermarks. He subsequently posted what he alleged to be the "real" unedited version, which featured different lighting and textures.
Defending his actions, xj0nathan mocked the official response, stating, "Alright, since the official account is acting all smug, here’s the real screenshot without AI (and unfortunately for them, it’s exactly the same crap 😂." He further teased that he possesses images of the long-delayed Beyond Good and Evil 2, which he described as being in a "catastrophic" state.
What We Know About Invictus
Despite the drama, the leak has offered a rare glimpse into Invictus, which was first announced in 2022. Developed by a team of For Honor veterans at Ubisoft Montreal, the game is described as a "new approach to multiplayer" for the franchise. Here’s what we know so far:
- The Concept: Rumors suggest a "Fall Guys-inspired" structure where iconic characters from the series battle in arenas across multiple rounds.
- Status: Playtests reportedly took place in late April 2026, though feedback was allegedly mixed.
- Release Window: Initially rumored for a 2025 launch, current reports suggest a 2026 release date, though internal delays are still possible.
The Invictus drama unfolds during an exceptionally busy period for the franchise. Fans have plenty to look forward to as Ubisoft fills its historical slate:
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Released in March 2025, taking the series to feudal Japan.
- Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced: A highly anticipated remake of the pirate classic, set to debut on July 9, 2026.
- Assassin’s Creed Hexe: A darker, witchcraft-themed entry currently expected to be released in 2027.
While Ubisoft remains tight-lipped about official Invictus details, the company's aggressive response to this leak highlights the sensitivity surrounding the project as it moves through its "test-and-learn" development phase.
