Claude Guillemot, the French video game co-founder of Ubisoft, died Friday at age 69 in a plane crash in La Baule, France. Ubisoft said it was “deeply saddened,” while Guillemot’s family still controls the company and his brother Yves remains CEO.
Claude Guillemot’s family built Ubisoft decades ago, and for years the Guillemots stayed close to the company they started. On Friday, that connection was shaken by a fatal crash.
Guillemot, the co-founder of French video game company Ubisoft, died Friday at the age of 69. French media reported that he died in a plane crash in the French resort town of La Baule. Guillemot was one of two people aboard the plane, and both died.
In 1986, Guillemot founded Ubisoft with his four brothers. The company went on to publish major game franchises including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Prince of Persia, and Tom Clancy titles, along with many other games.
The Guillemot family still controls Ubisoft. Guillemot’s brother, Yves, remains CEO.
Guillemot also served as chairman of Guillemot Corp., a business that makes gaming and audio accessories.
Ubisoft released a statement after the news. “Ubisoft was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Claude Guillemot. co-founder of the group and chairman of Guillemot Corp. in an accident. ” the company said. “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. No further statements will be made at this time.”.
Ubisoft Claude Guillemot plane crash La Baule Yves Guillemot Guillemot Corp gaming accessories Assassin’s Creed Far Cry Prince of Persia Tom Clancy