Microsoft may lay off hundreds of employees and consolidate Xbox studios this week

Microsoft announced the layoff of 268 Xbox employees on Tuesday, September 22nd. These employees belonged to Halo Studios. This change is part of what has been described as the 'most significant restructuring in Xbox history,' according to a statement signed by executive Matt Booty.

According to Matt Booty, two separate deals to acquire the studio Ninja Theory, responsible for the title Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, did not materialize. Consequently, Microsoft is in a consultation period regarding the possible closure of the studio if it cannot find a new buyer, as reported by The Verge.

These layoffs are part of a larger plan aimed at eliminating a total of 3,200 positions associated with Xbox by the end of June 2027. Two months prior, Microsoft had already made cuts to approximately 1,600 jobs and relinquished control of four studios, affecting teams from various companies linked to the company, including Bethesda, ZeniMax Online, and id Software.

The new Xbox CEO, Asha Sharma, aims to increase the division's profit margins and direct investments toward Microsoft's most important franchises, such as The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. Even so, previous cuts also affected teams directly linked to these two series, in addition to id Software, known for the games Doom and Quake.

These recent adjustments follow a reorganization that began several months ago. In June, Tecnoblog had anticipated that Microsoft was preparing large-scale layoffs and changes to the Xbox business model, encompassing expense reduction and a review of investments in different areas.

At that time, the division was under pressure to control costs after years dedicated to investments in infrastructure, content, and hardware. The strategy outlined under Sharma's leadership also included a reassessment of game development and an intensified focus on franchises considered crucial for Xbox.

The reorganization became more visible in July. In addition to layoffs, Microsoft began unwinding some acquisitions made during the previous administration led by Phil Spencer, who had increased the number of internal studios to strengthen the Xbox Game Pass catalog.

In a statement issued during the first phase of cuts, Sharma declared that the changes aimed to give the division 'more focus, more discipline, and more clarity.' The executive also assured that Microsoft would maintain its investment level in Xbox, even with the reduction in workforce and the departure of certain studios.

For Xbox enthusiasts looking to add quality titles to their collection, Amazon has made various deals available on games for Microsoft platforms. Three notable options were highlighted, ranging from RPG classics to sports franchises.

One highlight is FIFA 23 for Xbox Series X. This title represents the last version of the franchise under the name FIFA before the change to EA Sports FC. It incorporates substantial gameplay improvements, utilizing HyperMotion2 technology, which captures movements from real matches to generate more realistic and fluid animations. Furthermore, it supports major licensed world championships, modes such as Ultimate Team, Career, and VOLTA Football, and is compatible with the advanced features of the Xbox Series X.

Another relevant option is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition – Xbox 360. Recognized as one of the best RPGs ever developed, this game transports players into the role of Geralt of Rivia in a vast open world where moral decisions have real consequences. The complete edition includes the original game along with the two award-winning expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, providing countless hours of additional content in well-crafted narratives.

For fans of challenges, the Dark Souls Trilogy is available in a single package for Xbox One. This set includes Dark Souls Remastered, Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin, and Dark Souls III, with all DLCs included. This series was fundamental in establishing the soulslike subgenre and remains a benchmark in combat design, world exploration, and environmental storytelling, making it a solid investment for those seeking challenging experiences.

It is important to note that physical game stock can fluctuate significantly, and these promotional conditions are subject to change at any time. Interested parties are recommended to access the available links to secure their favorite titles.

For Xbox enthusiasts looking to grow their collection with renowned titles, three options currently on sale at Amazon have been selected. These offers range from epic RPGs to sports simulators and space adventures, catering to diverse tastes.

A highlight is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition – Xbox 360. This game, considered one of the best RPGs of all time, was released in the complete edition, including the main game along with all its expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. The combination of hundreds of hours of content, a vast open world, and a captivating narrative makes this title a rare experience in other games.

Another notable option is FIFA 23, which marked the end of the franchise under the name FIFA before the transition to EA Sports FC. Developed specifically for Xbox Series X, it features enhanced graphics and more realistic ball physics thanks to HyperMotion2, while maintaining traditional modes like Ultimate Team and Career, making it ideal for those who appreciate virtual football.

For Star Wars fans, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order – Standard Edition – Xbox One introduced Cal Kestis to the video game universe and pleased admirers of the series and the action-adventure genre. The game received critical praise for its lightsaber combat, planet exploration, and an exciting plot set after Order 66, establishing itself as a benchmark in the Star Wars gaming franchise.

It is important to note that these promotions may end at any time. Readers are advised to visit the links, check the conditions directly on Amazon, and take the opportunity to acquire their next favorite game before stock runs out.