Like a handful of other games, Splinter Cell was handed out for free for one month during Ubi 30. Ubi 30 games can only be redeemed through a dedicated page however, not through the Shop where the game doesn't even appear. When the month runs out, the game can still not be found in the Shop. Should it be noted that the game was available during this period? Not to mention, the game can be run without Uplay.
Topic on Talk:Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell
In my opinion, yes.
There have been several situations in the past where some game or game versions have been exclusive for certain bundles or certain times and then just not be available anymore. Single note under availability shouldn't bother anyone.
You can follow/join the discussion here (initially it was just a shower thought about DRM, but then it expanded)