Xbox Game Studios Boss Craig Duncan Steps Down

Craig Duncan has stepped down as the head of Xbox Game Studios after serving in the role for approximately 18 months. Having succeeded Alan Hartman in November 2024, Duncan oversaw a broad portfolio of internal development teams, including Halo Studios, The Coalition, Rare, Obsidian, Ninja Theory, and several others. His departure marks the end of a long tenure with the organization that began in 2011, during which he was notably recognized for his leadership of the UK-based developer Rare.

Alongside Duncan’s exit, Louise O’Connor is also departing her position as chief of staff for Xbox Game Studios. O’Connor, a long-time industry veteran with a history at Rare dating back to 1999, had transitioned into the chief of staff role in September 2025 following the cancellation of the project Everwild.

In the interim, the various studios previously under Duncan’s direct oversight will report to Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty. While no permanent successor has been named, the leadership change represents a significant shift in the management structure of Microsoft’s gaming division. Duncan’s departure follows a period of focus on high-quality game launches and internal cultural development, with the organization now looking toward its next phase of leadership under the guidance of the existing executive team.