Microsoft has recently undergone an internal reorganization that has resulted in the closure of several Bethesda studios, including those responsible for Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush. This restructuring is aimed at prioritizing high-impact titles and investing more resources into Bethesda’s portfolio of blockbuster games and beloved worlds.
The acquisition of Bethesda by Microsoft in 2020 brought 23 creative studios and franchises such as The Elder Scrolls and Fallout to the company’s catalog. However, this latest restructuring has led to the closure of several studios, including Arkane Austin, Alpha Dog Studios, Tango Gameworks, and Roundhouse Games.
Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush will be impacted, with Redfall receiving no further updates at the end of development, while Hi-Fi Rush will be removed from platforms. On a positive note, the Roundhouse Games team will join ZeniMax Online to work on The Elder Scrolls Online.
The affected studios have shared their news on social media accounts and thanked players for their support. Arkane Lyon will continue to work on immersive experiences with a new project on the horizon. Tango Gameworks and Alpha Dog Studios have reassured players that their previous games will still be available to play. Alpha Dog Studios has also announced the closure of Mighty Doom servers on August 7th, preventing further in-game purchases.
Microsoft’s reorganization of Bethesda studios aims to focus on high-impact titles and invest more resources into developing blockbuster games within Bethesda’s portfolio. While this shift may impact several studios, it will also lead to new opportunities for teams to work on existing projects and continue creating immersive gaming experiences for players.
Overall, Microsoft’s decision reflects its commitment to delivering top-quality gaming experiences for its fans while also investing in its long-term growth strategy.