007 developer suffers layoffs and Blade faces cancellation as Xbox cuts funding

Microsoft is reportedly considering closing at least five studios, including Arkane Studios, which is working on Marvel's Blade, and has pulled funding for IO Interactive's Project Fantasy. These cuts follow Xbox boss Asha Sharma's promise of a company 'reset' and are expected to lead to significant layoffs. While Arkane's Blade is at risk of cancellation due to budget overruns, IO Interactive remains committed to Project Fantasy despite the funding setback.

▸ entities in this article

COMPANY Microsoft
GAME 07 First Light
GAME Dishonored
GAME Marvel's Blade
COMPANY Arkane Studios
GAME Project Fantasy
COMPANY Io Interactive
GAME OD