Microsoft's new layoffs, which affect 9,000 employees, have heavily impacted Xbox as it has also led to the cancellation of certain titles.
One of which is the long-awaited reboot of "Perfect Dark" and a new game called "Everwild" from the studio behind "Sea of Thieves."
'Perfect Dark' Reboot, 'Everwild' Canceled
In a move that has upset many fans of "Perfect Dark," the reboot of the game will no longer push through. The original game was released 25 years ago in 2000.
According to a report by CNET, the cancellation of the game is due to the fact that its studio, The Initiative, will be shut down as part of Microsoft's layoffs.
Footage from the game was shared to the public during the Xbox Games Showcase last year, exciting many fans around the world. This excitement has now been snuffed by Microsoft.
In addition, a new game called "Everwild" from the studio that developed "Sea of Thieves" has also been canceled. Rare, the studio behind "Sea of Thieves," will also be greatly impacted by layoffs, resulting in the axing of the game.
According to the report, the development of many unannounced titles has also been axed due to the layoffs.
Phil Spencer Speaks Out in Internal Memo
According to Variety, Xbox Head Phil Spencer, who dealt with retirement rumors amid the layoffs said in an internal memo that "To position Gaming for enduring success and allow us to focus on strategic growth areas, we will end or decrease work in certain areas of the business and follow Microsoft's lead in removing layers of management to increase agility and effectiveness."
"Out of respect for those impacted today, the specifics of today's notifications and any organizational shifts will be shared by your team leaders in the coming days," he added.
It should be noted that the games presented during the 2025 Xbox Games Showcase are still under development. These include "Call of Duty: Black Ops 7," "Gears of War: Reloaded," and "Solo Levling Arise: Overdrive," among others.
Originally published on Player One
