Microsoft is laying off roughly 268 employees across Halo Studios, other first-party teams, and Xbox Game Studios' central functions, according to a memo from chief content officer Matt Booty. Two prospective buyers for Ninja Theory fell through, so Microsoft is starting a consultation process on potentially shutting the Hellblade studio unless another buyer emerges. Undead Labs has completed its spinout to independence, while talks over Arkane's future continue under French labor law through year's end.
theverge.com
· 2026-09-22
Pearl Abyss has launched a free 20-minute playable demo of Crimson Desert that runs entirely through Twitch's cloud streaming, requiring no download or installation. The demo works on any device with a web browser, though notably not on current game consoles. It coincides with the rollout of Crimson Desert Enhanced, a major free update released last week.
techspot.com
· 2026-09-02
Ikea has partnered with Microsoft to release Yxstaby, a nine-item collection of gaming-themed furniture marking 25 years of Xbox. The lineup includes a TV stand, laptop stand, side table, lounge chair and toolbox, alongside standout pieces like a tilting stool shaped like a thumbstick, an X-shaped cushion, a decorative platter and a mirrored display box, all designed with neutral Scandinavian tones accented by Xbox's signature green.
theverge.com
· 2026-08-26
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