Microsoft signals intention to close Ninja Theory after rescue deals fall through
Xbox begins a UK employment consultation at the Cambridge studio while saying it will continue to explore options to save the developer
Ninja Theory, the Cambridge studio behind the Hellblade series, is set for closure after Microsoft said two separate agreements to save the developer fell through and a staff consultation has begun under UK employment law.
Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty said in a blog post that "Unfortunately, two separate agreements for Ninja Theory fell through," and that Microsoft will "begin consultation with employees on a proposed closure while continuing to explore other paths forward." The company also said it is working to close the studio but remains open to an agreement to rescue it.
Microsoft had shown a new Hellblade entry, Senua, at the Xbox Games Showcase in June. The studio's position changed after new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma circulated a "reset" memo that signalled upcoming layoffs and closures, and Ninja Theory was listed among studios facing cuts in July.
The consultation with the Cambridge-based team is now under way in line with UK employment procedures.
