Microsoft reportedly negotiating closures of multiple Xbox studios, including Psychonauts' Double Fine, South of Midnight's Compulsion and Hellblade's Ninja Theory
1 hour ago
4 languages5 countries8 sources
Multiple sources report that Microsoft is in negotiations to close several Xbox game studios, including Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and Compulsion Games. Some reports indicate the studios are trying to become independent. The closures are reportedly part of a 'reset' announced by Xbox head Asha Sharma.
How outlets framed it
The framing of the event varies significantly by country. UK and US sources (GB, US) present the closures as a confirmed or highly likely outcome of a 'reset' or negotiations, often using definitive language like 'closing' or 'shutting down'. In contrast, Russian (RU) and Italian (IT) sources emphasize the studios' ongoing struggle for survival or negotiations to become independent, framing the situation as a threat rather than a certainty. Japanese (JP) coverage uniquely highlights the departure of an Xbox executive alongside the studio closures, adding a leadership dimension to the crisis.

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Eurogamer
Microsoft reportedly negotiating closures of multiple Xbox studios, including Psychonauts' Double Fine, South of Midnight's Compulsion and Hellblade's Ninja Theory
Engadget
Xbox is reportedly closing Ninja Theory, Double Fine and Compulsion Games
Polygon
Xbox ponders closing Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and more in 'reset'
The Verge
Xbox is closing down Hellblade creator Ninja Theory
3DNews
Double Fine, Ninja Theory и другие студии Xbox тоже оказались под угрозой закрытия, но продолжают борьбу за выживание
DDay.it
Xbox, a rischio chiusura Ninja Theory e altri studi: stanno trattando per evitare la chiusura
HDblog
Xbox sta chiudendo Ninja Theory, Doble Fine e Compulsion Games
GIGAZINE
XBOXの幹部が退任&傘下のゲームスタジオCompulsion Games&Ninja Theoryが閉鎖か