Is It Safe to Buy Games From Ubisoft? A Deep Dive

Yes, generally, it is safe to buy games directly from Ubisoft. Ubisoft employs industry-standard encryption protocols to protect your payment information during transactions on their store. However, as with any online purchase, it’s prudent to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks. This article explores the safety aspects of buying games from Ubisoft, debunks common misconceptions, and answers frequently asked questions to give you a comprehensive understanding.

Understanding the Ubisoft Ecosystem

Ubisoft, a global giant in the video game industry, operates its own digital distribution platform, Ubisoft Connect. Buying directly from Ubisoft offers certain advantages, but it’s crucial to understand how the system works.

Direct Purchases vs. Third-Party Retailers

Ubisoft actively encourages customers to purchase games either directly from their store or through authorized digital distribution partners. This approach offers several perceived benefits:

• Direct Support: Purchasing directly often streamlines customer support, as Ubisoft can directly address any issues related to your purchase or account.
• Potential Exclusive Offers: Ubisoft sometimes offers exclusive in-game content or discounts for direct purchases.
• Integration with Ubisoft Connect: Games purchased directly are automatically added to your Ubisoft Connect PC library, simplifying game management and access.

However, purchasing through third-party retailers like Steam or the Epic Games Store also has its own merits, such as leveraging existing loyalty programs or benefiting from sales events specific to those platforms.

Ubisoft’s Security Measures

Ubisoft claims to prioritize the security of its users’ data. They utilize encryption to protect your payment information during transactions. This means that your credit card details and other sensitive information are scrambled during transmission, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept them.

Potential Risks and Mitigation

Despite Ubisoft’s security measures, inherent risks accompany all online transactions. Potential risks include:

• Data Breaches: Although Ubisoft has security protocols, no system is entirely impervious to data breaches. It’s always a possibility that a breach could expose user data, including payment information.
• Phishing Scams: Cybercriminals may attempt to impersonate Ubisoft through phishing emails or fake websites to steal your login credentials or payment information.
• Account Hacking: If your Ubisoft account is compromised due to a weak password or reused credentials, unauthorized individuals could make purchases in your name.

Mitigation strategies include:

• Using Strong, Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords across multiple websites. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
• Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your mobile device in addition to your password when logging in.
• Being Vigilant Against Phishing: Always verify the sender’s address before clicking on links in emails. Be wary of unsolicited requests for your login credentials or payment information.
• Keeping Your System Updated: Regularly update your operating system and antivirus software to protect against malware and vulnerabilities.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

Several misconceptions surround buying games from Ubisoft. Let’s clarify some of the most prevalent:

• “Ubisoft is a Russian Company”: This is incorrect. Ubisoft is a French company headquartered in Saint-Mandé, France.
• “You Own the Games You Buy”: This is partially true. You own a license to use the software, not the software itself. This means Ubisoft can theoretically revoke your access, although this is rare for purchased games.
• “Ubisoft is Removing Games from Steam”: Ubisoft has retired online services for older games, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are removing them from Steam entirely. It primarily affects multiplayer functionality and online features.

Navigating the Ubisoft Store

The Ubisoft Store is the official online marketplace for purchasing Ubisoft games. It offers both digital downloads and physical copies (primarily for console titles).

Purchasing Process

The purchasing process is straightforward:

1. Browse the store: Find the game you want to buy.
2. Add to Cart: Add the game to your shopping cart.
3. Checkout: Proceed to the checkout page.
4. Payment Information: Enter your payment information (credit card details, PayPal, etc.).
5. Order Confirmation: Review and confirm your order.

Potential Issues

• Region Restrictions: Some games or items may not be available in your region due to licensing agreements.
• Payment Errors: Payment failures can occur due to incorrect information, insufficient funds, or issues with your payment method.
• Download Issues: Occasionally, users may experience problems downloading games due to network issues or server congestion.

FAQs: Addressing Your Concerns

1. Is Ubisoft payment safe?

Yes, Ubisoft utilizes encryption to protect your payment information during online transactions, making it reasonably safe.

2. What happens when you buy a game from Ubisoft Store?

The game is added to your Ubisoft Connect PC library. Console titles are usually delivered as a physical product.

3. Is Ubisoft site safe?

Ubisoft prioritizes the safety of its users and implements measures to prevent harassment, discrimination, and other harmful conduct within its communities. However, users should still practice safe online habits.

4. What happens if I buy a Ubisoft game on Steam?

If you launch a Ubisoft game purchased on Steam directly from Ubisoft Connect PC, Steam will open automatically.

5. Can you refund Ubisoft purchases?

Yes, you can request a refund for a Ubisoft Connect game within 14 days of your purchase and with less than two hours of playtime.

6. How do I play a game I bought on Ubisoft?

You can access the game through Ubisoft Connect, or the Xbox app for Windows PC.

7. Why won’t Ubisoft take my money?

Check your card’s expiration date, balance, and ensure recurring online transactions are enabled.

8. How do I remove my payment info from Ubisoft?

Go to your Ubisoft Connect account settings and select Payment Information to remove saved payment methods.

9. Is Ubisoft killing online support for 15 games?

Ubisoft has retired online services for some older games, primarily affecting multiplayer functionality and online features.

10. Does Ubisoft ban cheaters?

Yes, Ubisoft typically bans cheaters on the first offense.

11. Where is the best place to buy Ubisoft games?

Ubisoft recommends purchasing games directly from the Ubisoft Store or from authorized digital distribution partners.

12. Why is Ubisoft shutting down accounts?

Ubisoft may close inactive accounts with no data collection requirement, likely due to GDPR regulations. “This is only if we have strong reasons to believe that the account in question will remain unused.”

13. Is Ubisoft in financial trouble?

Based on the latest financial disclosure, Ubisoft Entertainment has a Probability Of Bankruptcy of 40.0%.

14. Does China own Ubisoft?

Tencent owns a 5% stake in Ubisoft.

15. Why Ubisoft product you want to buy is not available in your country?

The Ubisoft Store is region-restricted, and some items may only be available in certain regions due to licensing agreements.

Final Thoughts

Buying games from Ubisoft can be a safe and convenient experience, especially when purchasing directly from their store. By understanding the potential risks and implementing the recommended mitigation strategies, you can further protect your account and personal information. Always stay informed about the latest security practices and be vigilant against phishing attempts and other online threats.

Also, don’t forget to check out the work being done at the Games Learning Society, dedicated to exploring the intersection of games and education. Visit them at GamesLearningSociety.org.