Xbox transfers Rare and Halo franchise to Activision, proposes closure of Ninja Theory, and confirms another 268 roles cut amid studio restructure
Xbox has transferred legendary UK studio Rare and ownership of the Halo franchise to Activision, announced the imminent closure of Ninja Theory, and enacted sweeping cuts at Halo Studios. The news was announced via an Xbox Wire post this morning, and followed earlier reports of planned layoffs . Read more
Xbox has transferred the Rare studio and the Halo franchise to Activision, announced the closure of Ninja Theory, and initiated significant cuts at Halo Studios. The decision to sell Ninja Theory was unsuccessful, with the company now consulting with employees on a potential closure. A separate team will be formed for the next Halo game, distinct from the current development of Call of Duty.
The small team at Halo Studios will maintain support for Halo community and games currently in release. Ninja Theory was working on Senua, and Halo Studios' most recent project was the aforementioned Halo: Campaign Evolved, released in July. The studio faced difficulties following the release of Halo Infinite, leading to a switch to Unreal Engine and a rebranding.
Overall, Microsoft aims to cut 3,200 jobs this year, with nearly three-quarters completed at the time of the announcement.
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