Ubisoft has unveiled Ubisoft Quartz, a new platform that brings blockchain-based digital collectibles to its games, starting with Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Breakpoint on PC. The rollout marks the publisher’s first step into NFT-style assets, which it refers to as “Digits” — unique cosmetic items stamped with serial numbers that can be owned and traded by players.
Each Digit’s ownership record will be stored on the blockchain, offering what Ubisoft claims is a secure and independent ledger outside its internal systems. The platform launches in beta and will initially feature a limited number of cosmetic gear items.
Focus on energy-efficient blockchain tech
NFT technology has been met with criticism over environmental concerns, particularly due to the energy-intensive nature of many blockchains. Ubisoft is attempting to get ahead of these concerns by powering Quartz through the Tezos blockchain, which runs on a Proof-of-Stake model rather than Proof-of-Work systems like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
The company says this makes its NFTs far more energy efficient and reduces the environmental footprint, positioning the experiment as a “responsible” step into digital asset ownership.
Limited rollout for adult players
For now, Quartz will only be available in select markets, including the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Australia, and Brazil. The UK is not part of the initial rollout. The system is also restricted to players aged 18 and above.
Ubisoft has described Quartz as an early test rather than a full-scale launch. The publisher says it plans to assess player feedback and may expand blockchain-based items into future titles if the pilot proves successful.
Mixed reception across the gaming world
The announcement comes at a time when NFTs remain divisive in the gaming industry. Critics worry digital asset schemes could push monetization too far or prioritize speculation over player experience.
Even industry leaders have weighed in with caution. Xbox chief Phil Spencer previously told Axios he is wary of current NFT trends, noting that some implementations “feel more exploitive than about entertainment.”
Launching December 9
The Ubisoft Quartz beta goes live December 9 for Ghost Recon: Breakpoint on PC in select regions. A promotional trailer has been released alongside the announcement, offering a first look at how Digits will appear in-game.
As publishers explore blockchain technology, Ubisoft’s move puts one of the industry’s biggest players at the front of the NFT experimentation curve — but whether players embrace it or push back remains to be seen.
