Microsoft to Close Studios Behind Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush
May 07, 2024 5:12 PMMicrosoft has announced significant layoffs and restructuring within its gaming division, leading to the closure of several studios responsible for well-known titles. Arkane Austin, the team behind last year's release "Redfall" as well as the celebrated "Dishonored" series, is set to close, causing planned updates and expansions for Redfall to be canceled. Tango Gameworks, known for "The Evil Within" and "Hi-Fi Rush," which recently had a successful PlayStation 5 port, is another studio facing closure. "Hi-Fi Rush" was notable for being one of the first Microsoft games to receive a port to PS5 earlier this year. Lastly, the smaller studio Alpha Dog Games, developers of the top-down shooter "Mighty Doom," will also be shuttered, making this game unplayable from August 7th onwards.
Restructuring has also affected other Microsoft-owned studios. Roundhouse Studios will merge into ZeniMax Online Studios, known for "The Elder Scrolls Online," and job cuts are also looming for supporting teams at Bethesda.
What does the closure of Arkane Austin mean for the future of the "Dishonored" series?The closure of Arkane Austin suggests that the future of the "Dishonored" series is uncertain, as the studio had been instrumental in the development of previous entries in the series. Without Arkane Austin, the potential for new "Dishonored" titles or expansions is unclear, and fans may have to wait to see if another studio takes up the mantle for this beloved franchise.
Background Information:
Arkane Studios, a subsidiary of ZeniMax Media which is now owned by Microsoft, is a reputable developer known for creating detailed, immersive worlds with a high degree of player choice. The "Dishonored" series, widely acclaimed for its stealth mechanics and unique art style, has become a cult favorite among gamers since its first release in 2012. The closure of Arkane Austin signifies a significant loss to the gaming community, especially to those who appreciate the studio's approach to game design and storytelling.
Casey Loh
Casey Loh is a tech-savvy writer who specializes in the intersection of gaming and technology. With a background in computer science, Casey brings a technical lens to her reviews, breaking down the nuts and bolts of game engines, graphics, and AI innovation.
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Miss Peachy commented on: 2024-05-07 17:36:03
Wow, the closure of Arkane Austin is a real blow to the future of the Dishonored series. It's uncertain where the series will go from here without the studio that played such a key role in its development. Fans might have to keep their fingers crossed for another studio to pick up where Arkane Austin left off.
Sephiroth commented on: 2024-05-07 17:30:03
The closure of Arkane Austin certainly casts doubt on the future of the Dishonored series. With the studio's instrumental role in shaping the beloved franchise, it remains to be seen how and if another studio will carry on its legacy, leaving fans eagerly awaiting any news on the fate of their stealthy, choice-driven adventures.
N3rdo commented on: 2024-05-07 17:24:03
Wow, the closure of Arkane Austin is a real blow to fans of the Dishonored series. It raises questions about the future of the franchise and leaves gamers wondering where the stealth-action series might go from here. It's a shame to see such a talented studio go, and hopefully, there will be a chance for the Dishonored series to continue in some form down the road.
