Ubisoft Montreal's Ambitious MOBA Challenger Deserves Industry Recognition
March of Giants represents a promising new entry in the competitive MOBA genre, developed by veteran Ubisoft Montreal staff under Amazon including key figures from Rainbow Six Siege. The steampunk-themed WWI-inspired game incorporates unique strategic elements and a competitive foundation built by designers who understand esports-level gameplay. Early hands-on impressions suggest the title could significantly impact the MOBA landscape and compete with established genre leaders.
March of Giants originated as a project led by former Rainbow Six Siege director Xavier Marquis, who assembled veteran competitive game designers to explore the MOBA space. The studio initially operated under Amazon's publishing umbrella but faced development delays that prompted Amazon to close the division. Ubisoft subsequently acquired the project and relocated the team back to Montreal, where development continues under studio head Alexandre Parizeau and product director Laure Guilbert.
The game distinguishes itself through hybrid MOBA-RTS mechanics, featuring controllable minions and buildable items placed directly on the map. Its aesthetic draws inspiration from World War I imagery and steampunk aesthetics, though factions exist purely for gameplay rather than historical accuracy. The title's development represents a significant investment by an established publisher into competitive gaming innovation.
March of Giants could influence how major studios approach MOBA development by demonstrating market appetite for mechanically innovative entries in a genre dominated by League of Legends and DOTA 2. Success may encourage other publishers to greenlight experimental competitive titles and allocate resources to experienced esports-focused teams. The game's reception could affect hiring patterns in the industry and investor confidence in MOBA projects, potentially reshaping competitive gaming landscapes for players seeking alternatives to established franchises.