Microsoft Studios appears to have let go of a number of staffers, as confirmed by tweets from some of the affected. It’s unclear why these employees have been let go.
Neowin reports that several Microsoft Studios employees received word on April 2, that they would no longer be working for the company.
Artist Patrick Loughman was one of them, and as you can see below, the since deleted tweeted confirmed his departure.
I got laid off from Microsoft Studios today… I… I'm free? I'M FREEEEEEE!
— Patrick Loughman (@el_PatrickL) April 2, 2014
Technical producer at Microsoft Studios, Elbert Perez was also let go, but confirmed he is now working on a Kickstarter project:
I got laid off today at Microsoft and our KickStarter for #habitat just launched. Help me fund my dream :) https://t.co/qASLER0Qpr
— Elbert Perez (@mechaghost) April 2, 2014
A Microsoft representative said of the lay-offs, “At Xbox, our goal is to constantly create new fun, social and interactive entertainment experiences. As part of our commitment to this goal, we are always evaluating our development priorities, and there are times when decisions need to be made to realign plans and refocus our efforts.
“Microsoft Studios continues to grow as an overall organization as we focus and invest in key priority areas that will drive future profitable growth.”
Thanks, VG247