Ninja Theory, responsible for developing the Hellblade franchise, risks being shut down by Microsoft because two attempts to negotiate the sale of the studio were unsuccessful. This information was confirmed by Matt Booty, Microsoft's content director, in a statement released on Monday, the 22nd.
According to the executive, the company will begin a consultation process with its employees regarding a possible closure while simultaneously evaluating other options. This indicates that the closure is not yet confirmed but has become an official possibility.
The situation gained prominence because, just three months ago, Microsoft showcased Senua, the latest title in the Hellblade franchise, during its major Xbox demonstration event held throughout the year.
Microsoft had been seeking a buyer for the developer. According to Booty, two separate agreements involving Ninja Theory did not progress, forcing the company to initiate the procedure that could lead to the studio's closure.
Restructuring of the Gaming Division
Ninja Theory is part of a group of smaller studios that Microsoft chose to decouple from the Xbox structure during a broad reorganization of its gaming division. Three other studios had different outcomes: Double Fine, Compulsion Games, and Undead Labs were reintegrated into their respective administrations. However, the future of Ninja Theory remains uncertain.
Furthermore, Arkane also faces the possibility of closure, and consultations regarding this studio are expected to continue until the end of the year.
The announcement of Senua raised questions precisely because it occurred while Microsoft was already looking for a destination for Ninja Theory.
An internal Microsoft source, previously cited by Game File, suggested that the presentation of the new game would also serve to increase the brand's value before a potential sale of the studio.
Currently, there are no details available about what will happen to Senua if Ninja Theory is actually closed.
Founded in 2000, Ninja Theory worked on titles such as Heavenly Sword, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, and DmC: Devil May Cry. In 2017, it released the first Hellblade, which blended Norse mythology, Celtic culture, and elements of psychological horror.
After 26 years of operation, the studio's future will depend on the alternatives Microsoft can identify during the consultation period.