Microsoft’s recent decision to shut down multiple game studios, including Redfall developers Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, has sent shockwaves throughout the gaming industry. This move, announced by Xbox boss Matt Booty in an email to staff, is being described as a “consolidation of our Bethesda studio teams” in order to invest more deeply in the company’s portfolio of games and new IP. The closure of Arkane Austin and the creators of Hi-Fi Rush, Tango Gameworks, comes as a major blow to the gaming community, especially considering the critical acclaim received by their previous titles such as The Evil Within and Tokyo: Ghostwire.
In addition to Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, other studios impacted by the decision include Mighty Dog Studios and Roundhouse Games. Mighty Dog Studios, known for their mobile Doom spin-off Mighty Doom, will be shutting down, while Roundhouse Games will see its workforce transferred to Zenimax Online Studios. The closure of these studios not only results in job losses but also disrupts the creative and innovative work that these talented individuals were engaged in. The internal memo from Matt Booty highlighted the final update for Redfall and emphasized the need for remaining workers to treat their departing colleagues with respect and compassion during this difficult time.
In addition to the studio closures, Microsoft also announced the elimination of a small number of publishing roles across select Bethesda teams. This decision further underscores the significant restructuring taking place within the company as it aims to focus on priority games and increase investment in other parts of the portfolio. While Matt Booty acknowledges the disruption caused by these changes, he also emphasizes the need to make tough decisions in order to create capacity for future growth and innovation.
The closure of Arkane Austin, Tango Gameworks, and other studios is part of a larger trend within the gaming industry characterized by layoffs and studio closures following mergers and corporate consolidations. Microsoft’s decision to lay off 1,900 employees earlier this year and the announcement of 10,000 dismissals last year reflect the broader challenges facing the company. The closure of studios like Roll7 and mass layoffs at Intercept also point to a worrying pattern of instability within the industry, with talented developers and creative teams facing uncertain futures.
Overall, Microsoft’s announcement of studio closures and job losses within the gaming industry raises important questions about the future of game development and the impact of corporate decisions on creative talent. As the industry continues to navigate ongoing challenges and changes, it is essential for companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees and support a culture of innovation and creativity in order to ensure long-term success and sustainability.
Leave a Reply