Ubisoft is keeping its promise to add an offline mode to The Crew 2, and testing begins next week

Ubisoft’s recent decision to discontinue The Crew, a racing game that has been part of the gaming landscape for a decade, has proven to be a rather unexpected catalyst for change. Initially, one might assume that such a move would only ruffle the feathers of a small group of dedicated fans. However, it ignited a significant backlash against the concept of always-online gaming, culminating in a class action lawsuit, the enactment of new legislation in California, and a notable disclaimer on Steam. In response, Ubisoft pledged to avoid similar actions in the future regarding The Crew 2 and The Crew Motorfest.

Progress on Promises

Fast forward seven months, and Ubisoft is reaffirming its commitment to this promise. The company has announced that development is underway, with plans to invite a select group of players—chosen based on their hardware configurations and previous community engagement—to participate in a playtest beginning on April 30.

While the need for such an update may seem obvious—after all, the notion that “you can’t play online when you’re not online” is hardly groundbreaking—Ubisoft’s cautious approach is understandable given the backlash it faced. The company is keen to tread carefully as it navigates this sensitive terrain.

Encouragingly, Ubisoft is receiving positive feedback for its efforts to implement an offline mode. Comments across YouTube and social media reflect a growing appreciation for the company’s commitment to this initiative. However, this newfound focus on offline capabilities may also lead to heightened expectations from the community. Many players are now calling for similar offline functionality to be introduced for The Crew, as well as for The Division series and Ghost Recon Breakpoint.

As an avid player of Breakpoint, I can personally attest to the frustrations of being tethered to an internet connection. There are moments when I wish to engage in some solo gameplay, yet the requirement for an online connection renders that impossible during outages. This sentiment resonates with many, highlighting a broader demand for flexibility in gaming experiences.

Looking ahead, Ubisoft’s current roadmap includes plans to roll out the offline mode for The Crew 2 by the end of 2025, with The Crew Motorfest to follow at a later date. While the developers are currently focused on enhancing the live service aspect of the new title, they have assured players that an offline mode is indeed on the horizon.

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Ubisoft is keeping its promise to add an offline mode to The Crew 2, and testing begins next week