Xbox president Sarah Bond recently discussed Microsoft’s decision to shutter four Bethesda studios, explaining that it was done to ensure the firm’s long-term business health. In an interview with Bloomberg’s Dina Bass, Bond noted that despite big game releases in 2023, the games industry’s growth remained flat, and the cost of AAA titles continued to rise.
When asked about consumers’ understanding of the decision in terms of exclusive game development, Bond emphasized the company’s commitment to creating quality games, building devices, and offering services even during industry downturns and transitions. She highlighted the importance of ensuring the business’s long-term health and how the recent studio closures were a result of that commitment.
While Microsoft remains dedicated to its own studios and collaborating with partners to deliver a variety of games, Bond stressed the company’s focus on supporting those impacted by the studio closures through the difficult transition period. She mentioned that each studio and game team is unique, and decisions are made based on a variety of factors, emphasizing Microsoft’s long-term commitment to the games industry.
In response to a question about the closure of Tango Gameworks and the success of their game Hi-Fi Rush, Bond reiterated the uniqueness of each studio and game team in the creative art form of the games industry. She explained that success is different for each game and studio, and decisions are made based on a variety of factors in alignment with Microsoft’s long-term commitment to games.