Microsoft recently announced sweeping layoffs affecting 4,800 people, including 3,200 at Xbox alone. This is happening as part of a “reset” of Xbox, and this includes changes to the company’s various subsidiaries, including Bethesda.
Bethesda boss Jill Braff said the cuts at Xbox “reflect the realities of our industry and business.” She said Bethesda has a responsibility to ensure it is “operating from a more stable foundation.” In addition to layoffs across the organization–Betheda’s id Software, ZeniMax Online Studios, and Obsidian teams were hit particularly hard–Braff said Bethesda needs to rethink how it works and what franchises it focuses on.
“To be successful in the future, we need to change course,” Braff said in a memo to staff obtained by IGN. “We must strengthen our business, return to sustainable growth, and ensure we can continue investing in our franchises and our players. I know that doesn’t make a day like today any easier.”
