Xbox Sparks Fury with Closure of Arkane Austin, Tango Gameworks, More

Microsoft announced the closure of several prominent game studios, including Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, on May 7, 2024. The closures, which also affected mobile game developer Alpha Dog Games, have sparked fury among both developers and fans alike.

Representation — (Photo : Unsplash / Jose Gil)

Industry Reacts with Outrage

The decision to shut down Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, developers behind popular titles like Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush, respectively, has drawn widespread condemnation. Developers and fans took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration at the sudden closures.

Arkane Lyon director Dinga Bakaba voiced his dismay on X, emphasizing the importance of supporting artists and entertainers in the gaming industry. Other developers echoed similar sentiments, lamenting the loss of creative talent and the impact on the gaming landscape.

Questions Surrounding Job Losses and Corporate Priorities

While the exact number of staff affected by the closures remains unclear, the move has raised questions about Microsoft's corporate priorities. Despite the company's soaring profits, valued at over $3 trillion, the decision to shutter these studios has left many puzzled and disillusioned.

Former Blizzard president Mike Ybarra addressed the confusion surrounding the closures, defending Xbox boss Phil Spencer while acknowledging the pain felt by those affected. However, criticism has been directed at Microsoft for what some perceive as a failure to learn from past mistakes, particularly regarding studio acquisitions and closures.

Fallout and Reflection

As the gamers and developers grapples with the fallout from these closures, discussions have turned to the broader implications for the industry. Some have pointed to Microsoft's acquisition spree, including its $69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard in 2023, as indicative of a troubling trend.

Despite the setbacks, not all Bethesda studios are affected by the closures. ZeniMax Online Studios, developer of The Elder Scrolls Online, will absorb Roundhouse Studios, while other Bethesda teams remain untouched.