Microsoft Cuts Nearly 50% Staff at Forza, Xbox Studios

Microsoft is undergoing a significant round of layoffs affecting up to 9,000 employees, with major impacts on its gaming studios. Turn 10 Studios, the developer of Forza Motorsport, has reportedly seen nearly 50% of its staff laid off, with more than 70 employees affected, though enough staff remain to keep the game operational. Other Xbox subsidiaries, including Raven Software and Sledgehammer Games, which contribute to the Call of Duty series, have also experienced substantial cuts. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer explained the layoffs aim to position gaming for long-term success by focusing on strategic growth areas and streamlining management layers. These cuts come after Microsoft previously shut down studios behind titles like Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush as part of a resource reprioritization. Despite the layoffs, there has been no detailed discussion about future project plans at Turn 10 Studios.