Tim Schafer discusses game industry layoffs and Double Fine's split from Xbox
Tim Schafer, founder of Double Fine Productions, discussed the studio's recent split from Xbox and his perspective on the current state of the game industry. Eurogamer reported that Schafer questioned the economics leading to widespread layoffs, suggesting greed as a factor, while praising Xbox's past support for Double Fine despite their differing strategies.
Retro Gamer noted Schafer's confusion regarding the widespread job losses despite reported profitability, expressing hope for a cyclical recovery and acknowledging the creativity within the indie space. This follows Xbox's restructuring in June 2026, which included 3,200 layoffs and Double Fine's divestment, and Double Fine's own layoffs of 23 employees in July 2026.
Coverage across 2 outlets
Post-Xbox, Double Fine boss Tim Schafer is baffled by the terrible state of the game industry: "People are making money, so I don't know why there's a big loss of jobs"
Double Fine founder Tim Schafer expressed confusion regarding the current state of the game industry, particularly the widespread layoffs despite reported profitability. He questions the economics driving these job losses and hopes for a cyclical recovery, while acknowledging the creativity in the indie space.
"I assume someone is being greedy somewhere" - Tim Schafer discusses current game industry woes following Double Fine's split with Xbox
Tim Schafer, founder of Double Fine Productions, discussed the studio's recent split with Xbox and his views on the current state of the game industry. He expressed support for Game Pass but questioned the economics leading to widespread layoffs, suggesting greed is a factor. Schafer praised Xbox's past support for Double Fine but noted their differing strategies.
