In a bit of a shocking turn of events (if you paid no attention to the rumours), Patrice Désilets, a Ubisoft stalwart of 13 years and creative director on Assassin’s Creed and Assassin’s Creed II, has joined THQ and will be in charge of staffing up the publisher’s newly announced Montreal studio.

This news follows Désilets’s departure from Ubisoft earlier this year, just before E3 week.

The new THQ Montreal studio is said to be opening next year, and will focus on the creation and nurturing of new intellectual property.

Head of THQ’s core gaming business, Danny Bilson, said of the announcement:

“The best way we can deliver fresh, high-quality gaming experiences is by working with the best talent. THQ is delighted to have the opportunity to make a brilliant addition to our team next year with Patrice Désilets.

“We expect calendar 2011 to be a watershed year for THQ, and adding developers like Patrice helps ensure our focus on new IP and great games charted by leading industry artists.”