IO Interactive has laid off an undisclosed number of staff after ending its relationship with an external partner on its fantasy game project, widely believed to involve Xbox publishing. The move is unrelated to the successful release of 007 First Light, though it forces the studio to adapt its plans while pledging support for those affected.
Multiple outlets including Rock Paper Shotgun and Video Games Chronicle report the partner was widely believed to be Xbox, with internal 2023 documents listing Project Fantasy as an Xbox exclusive.
https://x.com/IOInteractive/status/2072005107797893315
Both Rock Paper Shotgun and Video Games Chronicle note that the staffing changes stem directly from the fantasy project setback and have no connection to the positive reception of 007 First Light.
Tap a lens to see what this story means for you.
Reader-supported · The Brief
Liked this? The Brief brings you the whole day in tech, verified, every morning. Two minutes, free forever.
See what’s happening right now
The Feed runs all day — short, verified briefs the moment they break.
Open the FeedFollow @thecircuitry_
Every story we publish, as it happens. No noise between.
Reader-supported
The Circuitry is a passion project I've always wanted to build, and I love the work behind it.
Running it costs real money. APIs, hosting, time. To keep improving the site and growing this into something useful for everyone, those costs have to be covered.
Any contribution is appreciated. If not, no pressure. Thanks for reading.
GameStop now owns 9.8 percent of eBay as CEO Ryan Cohen pursues a hostile takeover, stating his plan is to cut costs, maximize shareholder value, and compete with Amazon. The move raises questions about execution and further erodes GameStop's identity as a gaming retailer.
Ubisoft has confirmed New Game Plus for Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced after the remake reached 3 million copies sold one week after hitting 2 million. The news reflects strong early performance for the July 9 launch and continued post-launch support that has sustained positive Steam review ratings.
Bethesda Game Studios told players its next single-player title is still on track and remains the main priority after recent Xbox reductions. The studio also announced closer cooperation with Zenimax Online Studios on the series and confirmed the project will use Creation Engine 3.
