What Xbox's Reported Layoff Waves Mean for Players

The staggered layoffs create prolonged uncertainty for Xbox employees, while players may face a pricier next-gen console and potential changes to Game Pass features.

The staggered layoffs create prolonged uncertainty for Xbox employees, while players may face a pricier next-gen console and potential changes to Game Pass features.

Key points - Xbox is reportedly planning layoff waves in October, November, and January as part of 3,200 cuts by March. - 1,600 jobs were cut in July and 268 in September, including at Halo Studios. - Employees are reportedly demoralized by the staggered layoffs, which create a year of uncertainty. - Project Helix, the next-gen Xbox, could cost between $1,200 and $1,800 and launch by Christmas 2028. - An Xbox Game Pass overhaul may sell features like multiplayer and cloud gaming à la carte.

Timeline - July: 1,600 Xbox jobs are cut. - September: 268 more layoffs, including at Halo Studios. - October, November, January: Reported additional layoff waves planned. - By end of March: Xbox aims to complete 3,200 total job cuts.

FAQ

Q: How many jobs is Xbox cutting in total? A: Xbox plans to cut 3,200 jobs by the end of the fiscal year in March, with 1,600 already cut in July and 268 in September.

Q: When will the next Xbox layoffs happen? A: According to a Fortune report, layoff waves are planned for October, November, and January.

Q: What is Project Helix? A: Project Helix is the codename for Microsoft's next-gen Xbox console, reportedly projected to cost between $1,200 and $1,800 and launch by Christmas 2028.