Ninja Theory Faces Potential Closure Amid Xbox Layoffs
- Ninja Theory enters consultation for possible studio closure following Xbox layoffs.
- Two agreements fell through, leaving the studio without an owner.
- Development of a new Hellblade entry, “Senua,” is currently uncertain.
Ninja Theory, the studio behind the Hellblade series, Enslaved: Odyssey to the West, DmC: Devil May Cry, and Heavenly Sword, is facing potential closure as part of significant layoffs at Xbox. This was announced in a recent Xbox Wire blog post by Xbox CCO Matt Booty.
The consultation process with Ninja Theory employees is beginning as the studio prepares for a possible shutdown. The blog post stated, “Unfortunately, two separate agreements for Ninja Theory fell through. We will now begin consultation with employees on a proposed closure while continuing to explore other paths forward.”
Despite appearing secure during earlier studio cuts in July, Ninja Theory’s situation deteriorated when an unnamed buyer reportedly withdrew their interest, leaving the studio without ownership to support its operations.
The studio was working on “Senua,” a new entry in the Hellblade action-adventure series, which was unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase in June as a more expansive installment than its predecessors. However, within a month of its announcement, Ninja Theory was put up for sale by Microsoft.
Booty concluded the blog post by emphasizing the importance of supporting affected employees and fostering mutual respect, noting, “I will spend time with our studios over the next week. At our October 6 town hall, we will come together as an All-Xbox team to reflect on our progress and look ahead to one of the strongest game lineups in our history.”
Ninja Theory has produced several notable titles over the years, with Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice receiving widespread acclaim, along with other releases like Disney Infinity: 3.0, Bleeding Edge, and Dexed.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
