Xbox Showcase June Games Are All “Safe” – Report
▼ Summary
– Microsoft laid off Xbox developers, canceled games, and closed studios, but 40+ projects remain in development.
– All games shown at the June Xbox Games Showcase, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and The Outer Worlds 2, are still in progress.
– Rare’s Everwild and the new Perfect Dark were canceled, along with several unannounced projects like a potential MMO from ZeniMax.
– Xbox’s Matt Booty stated these cuts aim to refocus resources amid industry changes while maintaining a strong game portfolio.
– Microsoft’s broader layoffs affected 9,000 employees (4% of its workforce) as part of cost-cutting measures.
Microsoft has confirmed that all games featured in June’s Xbox Games Showcase remain in active development, despite recent studio closures and project cancellations. The company’s latest restructuring efforts resulted in significant layoffs and the shutdown of several unannounced titles, but major upcoming releases appear unaffected.
According to reports, high-profile games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, The Outer Worlds 2, and Gears of War: Reloaded are still on track. Titles not showcased, such as State of Decay 3, are also progressing as planned. However, some speculated cancellations, including Rare’s Everwild and the Perfect Dark reboot, were confirmed, neither had appeared in the June event, raising questions about their status beforehand.
Microsoft Gaming’s Matt Booty addressed the changes in an internal memo, explaining that the decisions were part of a strategic shift to refocus resources and prioritize high-impact projects. While acknowledging the difficult nature of these cuts, he emphasized Xbox’s commitment to delivering innovative experiences with fresh narratives and immersive worlds.
Looking ahead, Booty revealed that over 40 games are currently in development, with a strong lineup expected in 2026. This includes highly anticipated titles such as the Fable reboot, Gears of War: E-Day, and the next Forza installment, along with a potential Halo release.
The broader restructuring at Microsoft impacted roughly 9,000 employees worldwide, reflecting the company’s efforts to streamline operations amid shifting industry demands. Despite these challenges, Xbox’s core strategy, focusing on blockbuster franchises and new IP, remains firmly in place.
(Source: GAMESPOT)
