Microsoft Says No Announced Games Are Being Canceled Following Recent Studio Restructuring

Recently, it was reported that Microsoft was looking to further layoff staff within its reach among multiple divisions. Of course, XBOX was included in that. One report indicated Compulsion Games was a definite candidate alongside other teams as well. On Monday, it was officially revealed that the South of Midnight team alongside Double Fine Productions, Undead Labs, and Ninja Theory are to exit XBOX Game Studios.

All four will remain operable, just outside of XBOX jurisdiction. However, this leaves the question on what will happen to the revealed titles. In one report, it was understood that the previously announced Marvel’s Blade is being eyed to close. On the other hand, it was indicated by Matt Booty that the game will provide an update later this year.

To answer everyone’s questions, Microsoft in the same memo released on Monday also confirmed that the titles revealed – those announced for the affected teams – will still remain in development. XBOX CEO Asha Sharma relays the message confirming these games will be untouched despite teams going independent or under new management.

“None of our first party publicly announced games or projects are being cancelled as part of these reductions.” Specifically speaking on Ninja Theory & Undead Labs, she expressed that the teams with new ownership will still receive “funding to complete and grow Senua and State of Decay 3.” Arkane in the memo was also discussed to being shopped around for new ownership as well.

While the announcement is reassuring for the immediate projects underway by former XBOX Game Studios teams, the same cannot be said for others. Recently, it was reported that IO Interactive’s ‘Project Fantasy’ has been bumped off payroll by Microsoft and will now be self-funded as the developer issued layoffs then. You can read the full report by heading here.

Are you surprised by the new update for XBOX Game Studios titles?

Source: XBOX Wire