Obsidian Entertainment, fresh from releasing Avowed, Grounded 2 (Early Access), and The Outer Worlds 2, addresses the aftermath of Microsoft's 1,600-strong gaming division layoffs, which saw 50 staff cut from the studio. Despite halted Avowed sequel plans in favor of a new Fallout game under Josh Sawyer's leadership, the studio pushes back against claims of a changed identity. Game Director Adler defends Obsidian's "DNA," emphasizing continuity despite external speculation.
Ryse: Son of Rome, a visually stunning Xbox One launch title, had grand plans to evolve into a franchise rivaling Assassin's Creed, with sequels set in diverse historical settings like the Viking era and Feudal Japan. Despite its short campaign and linear design, the team envisioned open-ended sequels with new mechanics. Unfortunately, the series stalled due to underperformance and a rights dispute between Crytek and Microsoft.
Microsoft has dismissed allegations that the denial of foreign worker visas prompted the recent wave of layoffs affecting Xbox teams. The company asserts that visa issues were not a factor in its decision-making process. This clarification comes amid concerns over the impact of visa policies on the tech and gaming industries.
The Elder Scrolls 6, awaited for over eight years, faces potential delays and development issues due to significant Xbox layoffs affecting Bethesda. Over 50 key Bethesda staff, including veterans, have been let go, sparking fears of replaced talent with cheaper contractors and increased crunch. The game's release, already at least two years away, may suffer further setbacks.
id Software, fresh from completing Doom: The Dark Ages DLC, was exploring ambitious new projects before Microsoft's layoffs hit, including a new Perfect Dark game and a John Wick-inspired noir sci-fi title. The studio's future now hangs in the balance. These projects' fates are uncertain as the studio's workforce was drastically reduced.
Football star Erling Haaland has revealed his gaming setup, showcasing a high-end gaming rig. The World Cup star has also expressed interest in securing a sponsorship deal with Xbox. Haaland's gaming interests highlight the growing intersection of sports and gaming.
Microsoft plans to make more of its top games Xbox console exclusives to incentivize purchases. Titles like The Elder Scrolls 6, potential Fallout remasters, and possibly the next Halo could skip PS5. This strategic shift, led by new Xbox boss Asha Sharma, aims to "reset" Xbox amid financial struggles and a third-place market position.
Microsoft invested a staggering $80 billion in Xbox Game Pass, aiming to revolutionize game accessibility. Despite its ambitious goals, the service failed to yield the expected returns, leaving the gaming giant to reassess its strategy. Xbox Game Pass's underperformance raises questions about the future of subscription-based gaming models.
State of Decay 3, the upcoming survival horror game from Undead Labs, may not launch on Xbox Game Pass as previously promised. This reversal could impact player expectations and the game's accessibility. The uncertainty surrounding its Game Pass inclusion has left fans wondering about the title's release strategy.
id Software co-founder John Romero expresses sorrow for the 95 staff laid off at the studio and commends the team for advancing its legacy. With the Doom: The Dark Ages expansion releasing this week, Romero hopes someone is preserving the studio's history amid Microsoft's sweeping Xbox layoffs. The move is part of a broader restructuring seeing 3,200 staff let go.
