In October 2020, Ubisoft unveiled Ubisoft Connect, its new universal interface, through which gamers on all platforms can now interact with Ubisoft's services, game-related activities and community.
Along with the launch, we thought it would be interesting to learn more about what it's like to be a web developer in the video game world. Émile Bergeron, Yoann Dijoux and Olivier Simard, employees at Ubisoft Saguenay, told us about their job in this short interview.
What is a web developer?
For the trio above, the job of a web developer can’t be summed up in a single sentence. It’s first and foremost a mix of several characteristics: resourcefulness, versatility and a lot of curiosity. A web developer always needs to adapt and stay up to date because technology changes quickly, especially in the video game world.
“There are many possibilities in this job and that makes the work very exciting!” said Olivier.
What role does a web developer play in the video game industry?
The work of a web developer at Ubisoft is mainly focused on creating connected applications. It's a chance to work in new ways to provide millions of players with full interaction in service ecosystems, like Ubisoft Connect. It's an exhilarating job that gives us the chance to be involved in a number of challenging projects.
“At Ubisoft, we create connected and engaging applications. We create an experience! We often have the opportunity to make a project from scratch. It's a chance to reinvent ourselves all the time!” said Émile.
What challenges do they face in their work?
One of our developers’ main challenges is undoubtedly the distance between colleagues. Ubisoft is a global company with offices in over 30 countries. Our teams have to adapt to the different cultures, languages and time zones of their colleagues abroad. For example, as part of the Ubisoft Connect project, the three developers worked with other Ubisoft studios in France, Sweden and Quebec.
“It's very motivating to be able to develop connections with people in other places, who have different ideas and cultures. This also helps us learn more about the prominence of Ubisoft and realize that even if people are on the other side of the world, we’re all working for the same company, on the same project. It's really cool knowing that we're also working on a project intended to create a community!” said Yoann.
Like many other companies, this year we had many organisational challenges. Developers had to adjust to lockdown measures, while contending with the launch of new consoles.
“A new console cycle doesn't happen very often. It brings with it its share of challenges regarding platform compatibility, but it also gives us the chance to work on the latest generation of consoles before anyone else!” said Olivier, with a smile.
What are the advantages of working at Ubisoft Saguenay?
At Ubisoft Saguenay, the team of web developers includes nearly ten people who work and collaborate on a variety of projects. There is an opportunity for every employee. Each position is significant in its own way and our way of working considerably increases the studio's expertise. During the year, many activities are organized, which strengthens the bonds between colleagues, makes the work less impersonal and creates a more tight-knit atmosphere.
“We feel like a small studio, but with Ubisoft’s enormous resources and the projects that come with them. We have the opportunity to work internationally without leaving our own paradise, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.” said Émile.
Do you want to join our great team at Ubisoft Saguenay? Check out the available positions at https://saguenay.ubisoft.com/en/jobs/.