Xbox CEO Asha Sharma announced significant layoffs and studio transfers, sparking a debate over immigration and 'American' workers. Critics falsely claimed Sharma, a US citizen of Indian origin, fired Americans for H-1B visa holders, while others criticized the cuts due to Microsoft's profits.
Obsidian Entertainment is undergoing a significant reshuffle, including project cancellations like an Avowed sequel, as part of Xbox's broader restructuring and layoffs. The studio will now reportedly focus on a new Fallout game, with Josh Sawyer leading development. Approximately a quarter of Obsidian's workforce, totaling 52 employees, are being laid off.
id Software, the creator of Doom, is reportedly laying off about 50% of its staff. This is part of broader layoffs announced by Microsoft for its Xbox division and game studios. A former employee cited the 50% figure, potentially affecting around 90 jobs, though specific departments impacted are unknown. The Communications Workers of America (CWA) criticized Microsoft's negotiation tactics regarding unionized staff at id Software.
