Industry Update: Ubisoft and Xbox Face Significant Workforce Reductions
Major gaming companies Ubisoft and Xbox are undergoing significant restructuring, resulting in studio closures and planned layoffs.
Ubisoft Closes Studios and Reduces Workforce
Ubisoft is shuttering two of its smaller studios, Ubisoft Winnipeg and Ubisoft Belgrade. The closures are part of a broader restructuring effort within the company.
Reports indicate that approximately 380 employees are expected to be laid off as a result of these organizational changes.
Xbox Prepares for Significant Layoffs
Following its recent gaming showcase, Xbox is reportedly preparing for a significant round of layoffs. This move is part of a business 'reset' strategy initiated by new CEO Asha Sharma.
Internal communications suggest that leadership is looking to reassess company priorities, marking the fourth consecutive year of staff cuts for the division.
Sources
- Ubisoft is reportedly closing two studios and restructuring another, with around 380 people expected to be laid off (eurogamer.net)
- Xbox reportedly preparing for "significant" lay-offs, as Asha Sharma's big "reset" plan comes into full force (eurogamer.net)
- Xbox is reportedly planning major layoffs, as Sharma tells staff: ‘We need to reassess our priorities’ (videogameschronicle.com)