Microsoft has laid off employees at Bethesda and id Software, impacting teams behind The Elder Scrolls Online and potentially affecting newer franchises like Starfield. Bethesda President Jill Braff cited a need to "change course" and focus on stronger franchises.
The layoffs signal a strategic shift within Microsoft's gaming division, potentially impacting the development and future of established and newer game franchises, and indicating a broader trend of workforce reductions in the tech sector.
Microsoft has reportedly laid off a significant number of employees at its gaming studios Bethesda and id Software. According to reports, up to half of the team responsible for The Elder Scrolls Online has been affected. Bethesda President Jill Braff acknowledged the impact in an email to staff, stating that the company must "change course" and focus on its strongest franchises to ensure sustainable growth.
An id Software employee, Maynard, expressed sadness on LinkedIn about the fate of the FPS pioneer, describing it as a "reorganization" of assets. The layoffs at Bethesda are described as particularly hard-hitting, leaving remaining employees facing an uncertain future as Microsoft plans further reductions.
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