Xbox is undergoing significant changes under CEO Asha Sharma, with a memo warning of an 'Xbox reset.' This includes layoffs and potential studio closures, as well as price hikes on consoles due to component shortages.
Microsoft plans to close at least five studios, including those behind Marvel’s Blade, while also considering the cancellation of games like Blade. The Verge reports that IO Interactive is laying off staff for its next project, with uncertainty over its future. Ninja Theory faces closure, marking another studio affected by these changes.
Sharma and Matt Booty have highlighted issues such as an 'over-extended' studio system driving up console costs, leading to drastic measures. Despite these challenges, key franchises like Hideo Kojima’s OD are still set for release, albeit with some delays or cancellations.
The Verge also notes that Microsoft is reevaluating its relationship with Xbox and considering spinning it off into a separate company. This could signal broader implications for the gaming industry's business models in the future.
