Amidst concerns about the fate of Microsoft’s first-party development studios following the company’s recent layoffs and studio closures, reports indicate that Ninja Theory, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Hellblade series, has received the green light for a new game project. This affirmation from Microsoft comes as a relief for fans worried about the potential closure of the Cambridge, UK-based studio.
According to Windows Central, Microsoft has approved Ninja Theory’s new game, which is separate from the previously announced psychological horror title, Project Mara. The report further states that there are no plans to shut down the studio anytime soon, contrary to the concerns raised by the recent closure of several Bethesda studios, including Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin.
Ninja Theory’s forthcoming game will be in addition to the highly anticipated Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, which is set to launch on May 21st for Xbox Series X/S and PC. The studio’s latest offering, Hellblade II, has already garnered critical acclaim, with IGN’s review praising it as “another Viking-worthy feast for the senses that meets the high bar set by its predecessor.”
The news of Microsoft’s continued support for Ninja Theory comes as a relief amidst the widespread layoffs and studio closures that have rocked the gaming industry in recent months. Earlier this year, Microsoft announced plans to lay off approximately 8% of its workforce across Xbox, Bethesda, and the recently acquired Activision Blizzard, citing a need to “prioritize titles and resources.”
A message from Studio Head Dom Matthews ahead of our launch tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/IH98qP9evv
— Ninja Theory (@NinjaTheory) May 20, 2024
Xbox boss Phil Spencer attributed the cuts to a stagnant video game market and rising development costs, while also acknowledging the pressure to streamline operations following Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The closure of several beloved studios, including Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin, drew criticism from fans and industry insiders alike.
With the approval of Ninja Theory’s new game project, Microsoft seems to be reaffirming its commitment to the studio’s creative vision and talent. As the gaming industry continues to navigate this tumultuous period, the decision to greenlight Ninja Theory’s upcoming title provides a glimmer of hope for fans concerned about the future of their favorite developers and franchises.
As Ninja Theory celebrates the launch of Hellblade II and looks ahead to its next endeavor, gamers can rest assured that the studio’s unique storytelling and innovative approach to game design will continue to shape the gaming landscape under Microsoft’s umbrella.
