Arkane Austin, known for their critically acclaimed titles such as Prey and Dishonored 2, recently released Redfall, a live-service game that received mixed reviews. However, in light of the studio’s closure, Arkane is ceasing development on Redfall and working on refunds for players who purchased premium editions of the game.
Tango Gameworks, the studio behind The Evil Within 2 and Ghostwire Tokyo, also confirmed their closure on social media. The studio’s most recent release, Hi-Fi Rush, showcased their talent for creating immersive and atmospheric games.
Alpha Dog Games, a mobile game studio, will also be sunsetted by Microsoft. Their title Mighty Doom will no longer receive updates, leaving players without the promised premium content.
While the exact number of employees affected by these closures is not yet known, layoffs are expected. Xbox head Matt Booty explained that these changes are part of Microsoft’s strategy to focus on Bethesda’s established franchises and invest in their future development.
The news of these closures has sparked a conversation about the treatment of developers in the gaming industry. Dinga Bakaba, studio director at Arkane Lyon, expressed his disappointment with the decision and reminded executives that the gaming industry is an entertainment and cultural industry. He emphasized the importance of taking care of artists and entertainers and allowing them to express their voices.
It is clear that Microsoft’s decision to shut down these studios is driven by their desire to prioritize certain titles and invest in established franchises. While this may be a strategic move for the company, it is important to consider the impact on the developers and employees who have dedicated their time and talent to these projects. The closure of Arkane Austin, Tango Gameworks, and Alpha Dog Games marks a significant shift in the gaming landscape and raises questions about the future of game development under Microsoft’s leadership.
Overall, these closures highlight the challenging and ever-changing nature of the gaming industry. As companies like Microsoft make strategic decisions to prioritize certain titles, it is important to remember the individuals behind these games and the impact these decisions have on their careers and livelihoods.
