GoKawiilMicrosoft folds Halo, Rare and Age of Empires studios into Activision amid new layoffs
Microsoft has restructured its Xbox game studios, placing Halo Studios (formerly 343 Industries), Rare and Age of Empires developer World's Edge under Activision's control. The move accompanies 268 additional layoffs, with the remaining Halo team reduced to a small community-support unit while Activision assembles a new team to lead the franchise's future.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The shakeup shows Microsoft consolidating creative control of its flagship franchises under Activision leadership following its $69 billion acquisition, prioritizing centralized management over the independent studio model it once championed. For longtime Halo and Rare fans, it signals uncertainty about creative direction and continued job losses as Xbox pursues its cost-cutting 'reset.'
- Halo Studios loses most staff and shifts to a small community-support role
- Rare and World's Edge now report to Activision, not Xbox's original studio structure
- 268 new layoffs accompany the restructuring, continuing Xbox's ongoing workforce reductions
Xbox Wireless Controller — Whatever shape Xbox's franchises take amid this restructuring, the classic Xbox Wireless Controller remains a reliable way to play across Xbox consoles and PC. It's a great companion for revisiting Halo or diving into whatever Activision's next Call of Duty or Halo project brings. Comfortable, versatile, and built for both console and PC gaming.
See Xbox Wireless Controller on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: arstechnica.com, 2026-09-22
Published there as: “Shuffling the deck chairs: Xbox continues its "reset" with dramatic restructuring”
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