Microsoft is merging two of its Forza game development teams into a single studio as part of a larger restructuring effort within Xbox. Playground Games, known for creating the popular Forza Horizon series, and Turn 10 Studios, responsible for the Forza Motorsport games, will combine their efforts to focus on the Forza and Fable franchises. Xbox chief content officer Matt Booty announced the merger in a company-wide memo, stating that the two teams will "come together as one studio focused on the Forza and Fable franchises." The move brings together two studios that have worked closely together for over a decade, both technologically and creatively, and will formally integrate their work under a single team.
The merger has raised questions about the future of Forza Motorsport, a flagship title for the Forza series, as Turn 10 Studios will be closing. Some employees have expressed concerns about how the merger might affect the continuity of ongoing projects and the creative direction of the games. Microsoft has emphasized that the move is intended to strengthen the Forza and Fable franchises by combining the expertise and resources of both studios. The company stated it remains committed to supporting both franchises and will continue to invest in their development.
The restructuring is part of a broader effort by Xbox to consolidate resources and streamline operations across its development studios. The Verge reported that the merger is expected to take place over the next several months, with both studios retaining their existing teams and locations. However, the full details of the merger, including the number of affected employees and the timeline for integration, have not been fully disclosed.
This change is part of a larger restructuring that includes the closure of several other Xbox studios and the consolidation of development teams across the company. The long-term impact of these changes on the broader gaming industry and Xbox's strategic direction is still being evaluated. Microsoft has not yet provided specific details about how the restructuring will affect its future game releases or the overall gaming landscape.
Microsoft Merges Forza Developers in Xbox Restructuring
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