What Xbox's 'Growth' Talk Means for Your Next Console
Players can expect a broader range of Xbox hardware in the future, but ongoing layoffs and studio closures signal a turbulent transition that could affect game output and brand trust.
Players can expect a broader range of Xbox hardware in the future, but ongoing layoffs and studio closures signal a turbulent transition that could affect game output and brand trust.
Key points - Xbox CEO Asha Sharma told staff the company has returned to growth after an all-time low. - Sharma cited strong starts for Gears of War: E-Day, Minecraft Dungeons 2, and World of Warcraft: Forever. - The next-gen Xbox, Project Helix, will be a family of devices with a console-first focus. - Xbox has seen 1,600 layoffs in July, close to 300 in September, and more cuts coming. - Microsoft closed or divested studios including Double Fine and Ninja Theory.
Timeline - July: 1,600 layoffs at Xbox - September: Close to 300 additional layoffs - Today: CEO Asha Sharma holds town hall, says Xbox is returning to growth
FAQ
Q: Is Xbox actually growing again? A: CEO Asha Sharma says yes, claiming growth is 'more than 2 to 3 times' previous levels, but she provided no specific data to back it up.
Q: What is Project Helix? A: It's Xbox's Gen-10 platform, described as a 'family of devices' that includes a traditional console plus options for players on the go.
Q: Is Xbox for sale? A: Sharma insists Xbox is not for sale, though skeptics point to her comment that 'the plan's the plan until it's not the plan.'
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