Shawn Layden
Reporting and statements that mention Shawn Layden.
Latest coverage
Anyone Not Working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout at Bethesda is Being Laid Off – Rumor
Reports suggest that ZeniMax Media, including studios like Bethesda Game Studios and id Software, is undergoing significant layoffs, with employees not working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout projects being particularly affected. This comes amid broader Xbox restructuring and potential studio closures for titles like Hellblade and South of Midnight, as executives cite revenue losses and rising hardware costs.
Former PlayStation boss says Xbox shows a "basic misunderstanding" of the games industry amid leadership changes, mixed messaging, and reports of studio closures
Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden believes Xbox's recent inconsistent actions, including shifts in publishing strategy and reports of studio closures like Ninja Theory, indicate a fundamental misunderstanding of the games industry. Despite denials from figures like Matthew Ball, these moves have fueled an identity crisis for Xbox, leading to confusion among players and raising concerns about the company's health.
Xbox Shows a “Basic Misunderstanding” of the Gaming Industry, Says Former PlayStation Exec
Former PlayStation Studios boss Shawn Layden believes Xbox's recent actions, including impending layoffs and studio closures, demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the gaming industry. This perspective arises amidst reports of significant financial losses and strategic shifts within Microsoft's gaming division, impacting studios like Ninja Theory, Double Fine, and Compulsion Games.
$80 Games Are Already Here
The video game market is already seeing $80 games, with Nintendo leading the charge on titles like Mario Kart World and upcoming Switch 2 releases. This trend is fueled by rising development costs and inflation, with analysts predicting more publishers will adopt higher price points. While some companies like Sony and Microsoft have maintained $70 prices, others like Take-Two Interactive have successfully implemented price hikes, suggesting $80 could become the new standard for AAA games.
Xbox Game Pass gets "grim prognosis" from former PlayStation CEO, new Xbox head Asha Sharma tells him they…
Former PlayStation CEO Shawn Layden suggested that Xbox should discontinue the Game Pass subscription service, citing its increasing cost. New Xbox lead Asha Sharma has expressed interest in discussing these concerns with industry veterans.
Ex-PlayStation boss says Microsoft is 'trying so hard to will' Xbox Game Pass 'into health' and suggests 'a clarifying post mortem would do the entire industry some good'
Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden commented on Xbox's efforts to sustain Xbox Game Pass, suggesting the service is struggling despite Microsoft's attempts to improve its value. This follows a leaked memo from Xbox CEO Asha Sharma acknowledging the subscription service's current high cost and outlining plans for future evolution. Layden also stated that a thorough analysis of the service's performance would benefit the entire industry.
Gaming Needs More Ads, Expert Says, And A $6 Game Pass Tier
Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma is reportedly exploring ways to make Xbox Game Pass more affordable, potentially through a lower-priced, ad-supported tier. Industry expert Joost van Dreunen suggests embracing advertising, citing its prevalence in other media, and notes that subscriptions excel at retention but not market growth. Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden expressed skepticism about Game Pass's current trajectory, while Netflix CEO Greg Peters indicated openness to potential bundle collaborations with Xbox.
Nexon agrees to publish Overwatch in Korea
Nexon has agreed to publish Overwatch in Korea, taking over from Blizzard Entertainment. The article also discusses Sony's past strategies regarding remasters and remakes, questioning their current business decisions and leadership changes.
Larry Hryb joins Commodore International Corporation as community development consultant
A Newzoo report indicates a significant lack of overlap between players of Roblox and Minecraft and those who play traditional AAA titles like Assassin's Creed: Shadows. These younger players are more likely to engage with live service games such as Fortnite and Grand Theft Auto V, or games that resemble Roblox experiences. This trend raises questions about the future evolution of the gaming audience and the market for AAA games.
"There Really Is No Major Competition for PlayStation" Former CEO Shawn Layden
Former PlayStation CEO Shawn Layden asserts that Sony faces no significant competition in the console market, with Xbox struggling and Nintendo operating independently. He suggests this allows Sony to dictate console release schedules, including that of the PlayStation 6.
″There Really Is No Major Competition for PlayStation″ – Former CEO Shawn Layden
Former PlayStation CEO Shawn Layden stated that there is no significant competition for the PlayStation platform. The article also touches on worker protections in Japan, contrasting them with practices in other regions, and mentions layoffs at Insomniac Games despite strong sales for Marvel's Spider-Man 2.
Video games shouldn't try to win the 'attention war'
This article argues that video games should not compete in the 'attention war' against other digital markets like social media or online betting. Instead of focusing on exploitative retention techniques, the industry should prioritize creating engaging content. The author highlights how some companies use psychological tactics to keep users hooked, drawing parallels to addictive behaviors and warning against the potential harm to players and businesses.
PS6 will need a disc drive, according to this ex-PlayStation boss
Former Sony Interactive Entertainment president Shawn Layden believes the PlayStation 6 must include a disc drive to avoid alienating a significant portion of the player base who still rely on physical media. He argues that a fully digital console would be a mistake, citing regional internet limitations and the continued demand for physical game purchases, even as services like Xbox Game Pass grow.
Former PlayStation boss says Xbox can succeed like Sega
Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden believes Microsoft's strategy of releasing Xbox Series titles on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, mirrors Sega's past transition to a software-focused company. While this approach expands audience reach, Layden notes it challenges the creation of console exclusivity and the 'fear of missing out' that drives hardware sales. The article discusses the implications of this trend for the gaming industry and consumer perception.
