When Notre-Dame Cathedral burned in 2019, Ubisoft, a French video game company, had already digitally recreated the cathedral for AC Unity (2014), and later offered their plans and expertise to help rebuild the iconic landmark

Ubisoft, the French video game company, confirmed in late 2023 that it had previously digitally recreated Notre-Dame Cathedral for the video game Assassin’s Creed Unity and offered its expertise to aid in the cathedral’s reconstruction after the 2019 fire.

In 2014, Ubisoft developed a detailed digital model of Notre-Dame Cathedral for the game Assassin’s Creed Unity, capturing its architecture and intricate details. Following the fire in April 2019 that caused significant damage to the historic landmark, Ubisoft publicly offered its digital resources and technical expertise to assist in the cathedral’s rebuilding efforts. The company stated that it had shared its digital models and knowledge with authorities and preservation specialists involved in the restoration process. This information was disclosed by Ubisoft in late 2023, indicating their willingness to contribute to cultural heritage preservation through digital technology.

Why It Matters

This development illustrates the potential for digital technology and gaming companies to support cultural preservation and restoration efforts. Ubisoft’s offer of assistance demonstrates how digital recreations can complement physical reconstruction efforts of historic landmarks. It also highlights the broader applications of gaming technology beyond entertainment, including heritage conservation and disaster recovery. For cultural institutions and the public, this represents an example of technological contributions to cultural heritage preservation, which may influence future restoration initiatives.

Background

The fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral in April 2019 drew international attention and initiated extensive reconstruction efforts. Ubisoft, based in France, had previously created a detailed digital model of the cathedral for Assassin’s Creed Unity, released in 2014. The digital recreation was recognized for its accuracy and detail, serving as a virtual reference. After the fire, Ubisoft offered its digital expertise to support the physical restoration, a gesture that was not publicly known until its disclosure in late 2023. This contribution added a new dimension to the ongoing rebuilding process.

“We had already digitally recreated Notre-Dame for Assassin’s Creed Unity, and we offered our resources and expertise to support the restoration efforts after the fire.”

— Ubisoft spokesperson

“Digital models like Ubisoft’s can be valuable for restoration, providing precise references for reconstruction and preservation.”

— Cultural heritage expert

What Remains Unclear

It remains unclear how extensively Ubisoft’s digital models have been utilized in the actual reconstruction process or whether their expertise has been formally integrated into official restoration plans. Details regarding their current involvement have not been publicly disclosed.

What’s Next

Restoration authorities may consider integrating Ubisoft’s digital models into ongoing reconstruction efforts. Further information about the scope of Ubisoft’s involvement and potential collaborations is anticipated in the future.

Key Questions

Did Ubisoft directly participate in the physical reconstruction of Notre-Dame?

There is no confirmed evidence that Ubisoft directly participated in physical reconstruction; they provided digital resources and expertise after the fire.

How accurate was Ubisoft’s digital model of Notre-Dame?

Ubisoft’s digital recreation for Assassin’s Creed Unity was detailed and recognized for its accuracy, serving as a virtual reference for the cathedral’s architecture.

Will Ubisoft be involved in future restoration projects of cultural landmarks?

It is currently unclear whether Ubisoft plans to expand its involvement beyond Notre-Dame or participate in other heritage restoration efforts.

What does this reveal about the role of gaming companies in cultural preservation?

This indicates a recognition of digital technology and gaming expertise as potential tools in cultural heritage preservation and restoration.