Leaked Footage Reveals Cancelled Assassin’s Creed Project Set in Ancient China

Leaked Footage Reveals Cancelled Assassin’s Creed Project Set in Ancient China

New footage has surfaced online, offering a rare look at a cancelled mainline Assassin’s Creed game that was reportedly in development for consoles and PC. According to Video Games Chronicle, which cites source material discovered by MP1st, the project carried the working title Assassin’s Creed Destiny. This project represents a lost opportunity for a dedicated premium console experience in a setting that fans have long requested for the main series.

A Glimpse at the Lost Prototype

The leaked videos show a prototype set in 206 BCE during the Qin Dynasty. The gameplay footage features a female protagonist infiltrating a sacred palace under siege by the historical warlord Xiang Yu. The footage even highlights a boss battle involving the warlord himself. Players can spot classic series staples in the clips, including the signature leap of faith and stealth takedowns, alongside a unique spinning umbrella-style weapon that appears to be a placeholder asset. MP1st reports that the game was being led by Tencent subsidiary TiMi Studio Group, the same team currently working on the upcoming mobile title Assassin’s Creed Jade.

Unlike the mobile-focused Jade, Destiny was intended as a full instalment designed specifically for consoles and PCs. The cancellation of the project is reportedly tied to a broader corporate pivot executed by Tencent in 2024. Sources indicate that Tencent moved away from developing Western franchises during this period, opting instead to prioritize internal projects that offered higher profit margins within the domestic Chinese market.

Ubisoft has officially addressed the changing landscape of its development pipeline. Jean Guesdon, who was appointed as head of content for the Assassin’s Creed franchise in February, noted that the company is actively applying lessons learned from cancelled projects to shape its future releases. Ubisoft remains committed to its broader roadmap, which includes the upcoming title Codename Hexe. Guesdon has personally taken over as the lead for Hexe following a change in creative direction.

Why it matters

For fans waiting for a console or PC experience set in China, this leak serves as a definitive look at a project that will never reach the market. While Ubisoft remains committed to Assassin’s Creed Jade, the cancellation of Destiny marks a significant shift in how the company balances its mobile and premium offerings. Ubisoft has confirmed that Assassin’s Creed Jade remains in active development and will eventually feature co-op gameplay, offering a different way for players to experience the region. By consolidating leadership under the new Vantage Studios subsidiary and reevaluating its development resources, Ubisoft aims to ensure that each future premium project receives the necessary time and focus to succeed before release.