Ubisoft Silences Black Flag Star with Legal Threat After Remake Leak

Matt Ryan’s charismatic portrayal of pirate Edward Kenway made Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag a fan favorite. Now, that same charisma has landed the actor in Ubisoft’s legal crosshairs. At a recent convention, Ryan revealed the gaming giant threatened to sue him after he inadvertently confirmed the existence of a hotly anticipated Black Flag remake during an unguarded moment with fans.

The incident unfolded as Ryan signed memorabilia, unaware a fan was recording. When questioned about his earlier hints at a remake, Ryan initially deflected with a shrug and “Don’t know.” Pressed further, he confessed: “When that happened, someone was doing this,” he gestured toward a phone, “and I was being very free and open. I didn’t know they were recording… the company threatened to sue me. So I say nothing.” The video, shared widely on July 31, 2025, confirmed industry rumors swirling since late June.

Ubisoft’s Heavy-Handed Reaction Raises Eyebrows

This legal threat arrives despite Ubisoft’s own CEO, Yves Guillemot, openly confirming in June 2024 that remakes of classic Assassin’s Creed titles were in development. Given Black Flag’s enduring popularity and frequent top rankings in fan polls, its inclusion was widely assumed. Industry analysts note Ubisoft faces significant pressure to rebuild trust after recent project cancellations and workplace controversies. A well-received remake could be pivotal.

“The disconnect here is staggering,” notes legal analyst David Carter (Entertainment Law Quarterly, August 2025). “While NDAs are standard, threatening an actor over an informal comment—especially when leadership already acknowledged remakes exist—feels unnecessarily aggressive. A confidential reminder would likely have sufficed.” This approach risks alienating both talent and a passionate fanbase eagerly awaiting official news.

The Cost of Corporate Secrecy in Gaming

The incident highlights the intense secrecy shrouding AAA game development and its human impact. Performers like Ryan, integral to a title’s success, often navigate complex confidentiality agreements long after their work ends. Ryan’s experience underscores how easily casual interactions can trigger corporate repercussions in the social media age.

Ubisoft’s response also appears strategically questionable. Leaks suggest the Black Flag remake targets a 2026-2027 release. Silencing its iconic star dampens organic hype and shifts focus from anticipation to corporate rigidity. As our deep dive into Black Flag’s legacy explored, Kenway’s rogue charm remains central to the game’s appeal—making Ryan’s forced silence particularly ironic.

Ubisoft’s Legal Clampdown Backfires Amid Remake Rumors

Ubisoft’s legal threat against Matt Ryan over the Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake leak prioritizes corporate control over community goodwill at a precarious time. While protecting intellectual property is valid, targeting the beloved voice of Edward Kenway for an offhand comment feels disproportionate and counterproductive. With the remake unofficially confirmed, fans now await Ubisoft’s official announcement—hoping it channels the adventurous spirit of Kenway rather than the heavy hand of corporate lawyers. Follow trusted gaming outlets for verified updates.

Must Know

Q: What exactly did Matt Ryan leak about the Black Flag remake?
A: In late June, Ryan seemingly confirmed the remake’s existence during an unrecorded fan interaction. At a July 2025 convention, while filmed, he disclosed Ubisoft’s subsequent legal threat over that initial leak, effectively confirming the project.

Q: Why would Ubisoft threaten legal action if remakes were already confirmed?
A: While CEO Yves Guillemot confirmed Assassin’s Creed remakes were in development in June 2024, Ubisoft never specified titles. Ryan’s leak directly tied Black Flag to the project, potentially violating a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

Q: Has Ubisoft officially announced the Black Flag remake now?
A: No. Despite Ryan’s leak and widespread reporting, Ubisoft maintains official silence. Announcements typically align with major events like Ubisoft Forward.

Q: Could this affect Matt Ryan’s involvement in the remake?
A: Potentially. While no details are confirmed, legal friction could complicate negotiations for him to reprise Edward Kenway. Fans widely demand his return.

Q: Why is Ubisoft so sensitive about leaks?
A: Leaks disrupt marketing plans, impact stock prices, and undermine carefully crafted reveals. Recent high-profile cancellations (e.g., Project Q) also heighten scrutiny on their pipeline.

Q: When is the Black Flag remake likely to release?
A: Industry insiders, citing sources like Jason Schreier (Bloomberg), suggest a 2026-2027 window, though Ubisoft hasn’t verified this.