Phil Spencer Defends Xbox Studio Closures, Layoffs: “I Have To Run A Sustainable Business”
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has explained his point of view regarding the decision-making process behind the recent closure of several studios, including Tango Gameworks, the studio behind 2023’s hit rhythm-based action game, Hi-Fi Rush.
“The closure of any team is hard obviously on the individuals, hard on the team,” Spencer said during an interview with IGN following Sunday’s Xbox Showcase. I haven’t been talking publicly about this because right now is a time for us to focus on the team and the individuals. It’s obviously a decision that’s very hard on them, and I want to make sure–through severance and other things–that we’re doing the right thing for individuals on the team [who have been laid off]. It’s not about my PR, it’s not about Xbox PR, it’s about those teams.”
Despite being asked specifically about the reasons behind the fate of Tango Gameworks, Spencer kept his answers vague.