In a recent interview, xbox Head Phil Spencer touched on a range of topics related to the platform, including the recent layoffs.
Earlier this month, Microsoft laid off about 10,000 workers, reportedly preparing for slower revenue growth, while Xbox-owned studios such as Halo developer 343 Industries and Bethesda were also affected. Spencer recently spoke to IGN about the future of Xbox this year, but also about layoffs.
“As someone who’s been on Xbox for a long time, it’s always a challenge whenever co-workers … team members aren’t going forward with us,” Spencer told IGN. Impact at heart. As the head of the business, I see my commitment and responsibility to create a safe place where people can do their best work. Clearly, we’ve made cuts to some of the people out there. I don’t’ It worked.”
Spencer goes on to explain that “we have to run some business,” which means “the right resource in the right place to do the best work.” He explained that this can sometimes mean less, and he obviously doesn’t “take it lightly because the personal impact is real.” Some important background, in case you missed it, is that Microsoft is acquiring Activision Blizzard King, which itself owns Nearly 10,000 employees.
The Xbox chief did talk about the acquisition in the interview, admitting that he knew basically nothing about the process when it began. He is now “more confident” than he was a year ago, although he now has “greater insight and a better understanding of what it means to work with different regulatory committees”.
Spencer touched on a few other topics, reiterating his belief in 343 Industries and its plans to move forward with Halo. He also acknowledged the lack of major releases in 2022, saying: “Our commitment to our fans is that we need to have a steady stream of good games that people can play on our platform, and we’re not doing enough in 2022, no doubt about it. ”
