Contrast

Xbox Intends to Close Several Studios at Once

Microsoft’s gaming division is currently facing a period of significant organizational instability, with reports indicating that the company is planning to close multiple internal studios.

• Microsoft is planning a significant downsizing of its Xbox division, with reports indicating that at least three major studios—Compulsion Games, Double Fine Productions, and Ninja Theory—are currently facing potential closure.
• Arkane Lyon, the developer currently working on Marvel’s Blade, has also been identified as a candidate for potential closure.
• The studios facing closure are currently in negotiations with Microsoft to buy themselves out and gain independence, though such a move would still involve significant internal layoffs.