Industry Briefing: Microsoft Layoffs, Rockstar Union Vote, and Nintendo Showcase
A busy week for the gaming industry as Microsoft initiates voluntary exits, Rockstar faces a critical union vote, and Nintendo prepares a new Indie World showcase.
Microsoft Workforce Reductions and Warhorse Cyberattack
Microsoft has announced a "Voluntary Exit Offer" extended to 60,000 employees. This initiative aims to reduce headcount across the company, including the Xbox division, as the tech giant shifts focus toward massive AI investments.
Separately, Warhorse Studios, the developer behind Kingdom Come: Deliverance, is dealing with a "serious" cyberattack. The studio is currently investigating the full extent of the security breach.
Rockstar Union Vote Coincides with GTA 6 Launch
Rockstar Games is set to hold a union vote this November. The timing is particularly notable as it aligns directly with the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6.
The upcoming vote marks a significant moment for labor relations within the studio during one of the most important product launches in the company's history.
Nintendo Indie World Showcase Announced
Nintendo has scheduled a 15-minute Indie World showcase for October 28. The presentation is expected to feature titles for both the current Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
This event follows a strong 2026 for the platform holder, which has seen success with titles like Fire Emblem and Nintendo Switch Sports Resort.
Sources
- Amid sweeping layoffs at Xbox and massive AI investments, Microsoft introduces a "Voluntary Exit Offer" to 60,000 workers (eurogamer.net)
- Rockstar will hold union vote right on top of Grand Theft Auto 6 release (pcgamer.com)
- Nintendo is hosting a new Indie World showcase tomorrow, featuring games for Switch and Switch 2, and it'll be 15 minutes long (eurogamer.net)
- "This is a serious incident" - Kingdom Come: Deliverance developer Warhorse suffers cyberattack (eurogamer.net)