Microsoft Announces Additional Xbox Layoffs, Ninja Theory May Close
Microsoft announced layoffs affecting approximately 268 Xbox employees as part of an ongoing restructuring in its gaming division. This follows a larger round of cuts that impacted around 1,600 Xbox staff members earlier this year and is part of the company's broader plan to eliminate 3,200 roles by June 2027. Xbox chief content officer Matt Booty stated that these layoffs are spread across Halo Studios, other first-party studios, and management functions. The restructuring also includes selling off four Xbox-owned game development studios. While two of them—Double Fine and Compulsion Games—are now independent, deals to sell Ninja Theory have failed, leading Microsoft into a consultation period for potential closure unless another buyer is found. The company continues consultations regarding the future of Arkane studio in France under local labor laws while Activision has taken over management of Halo alongside other franchises like Sea of Thieves. These changes are part of Xbox's broader reorganization aimed at streamlining operations and refocusing its gaming strategy.
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Topics: Gaming Industry Microsoft Studio Closures Xbox