Microsoft's history of mismanaging acquired game studios raises concerns about future closures
By
Oli Welsh
Crisp on the outside, thoughtful on the inside. A keeper.
Summary
This opinion piece argues that Microsoft's recent closure of Tango Gameworks and other studio cuts demonstrate a pattern of mismanagement in its Xbox game studio acquisitions. The author contends that Microsoft should not close studios like Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games, and Double Fine, and that the company's corporate culture of chasing blockbuster hits and mismanaging creative talent has historically harmed acquired studios such as Rare, Bungie, and Lionhead. The article criticizes Microsoft's approach to game development as overly focused on metrics and profit rather than fostering creative success.
Key quotes
· 4 pulled'Microsoft's track record with acquired studios is abysmal, and it's a pattern that shows no signs of changing.'
'The problem isn't that Microsoft buys studios — it's what they do with them after the acquisition.'
'Ninja Theory, Compulsion, and Double Fine represent some of the most creative talent in the industry, and they deserve better than to be treated as assets on a balance sheet.'
'When you buy a studio for its creative vision and then force it to chase trends, you've already lost what made that studio special.'
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