Xbox Game Studios boss Matt Booty recently made controversial remarks during a town hall meeting, stating the need for smaller games that bring prestige and awards. This statement came just a day after the closure of several subsidiaries, including Tango Gameworks, which developed the critically acclaimed game Hi-Fi Rush.
Booty’s comments have sparked backlash online, as they seem contradictory to the decision to shut down studios known for producing smaller, prestigious titles. Tango Gameworks, despite its closure, had released Hi-Fi Rush, a game praised for its innovative blend of rhythm gameplay and stylish visuals.
Hi-Fi Rush, in particular, had achieved recognition, winning a BAFTA Award and a Game Award for its animation and audio, respectively. However, despite its critical success, Tango Gameworks was shut down by Microsoft, raising concerns about the future of smaller, innovative game development within the Xbox ecosystem.
The closure of Tango Gameworks is part of a larger trend within Microsoft Gaming, which has also affected studios like Arkane Austin and Alpha Dog. This decision has led to speculation about the fate of ongoing projects, including potential sequels to Hi-Fi Rush and new entries in franchises like Dishonored.
As the gaming community voices its concerns over the impact of studio closures on beloved franchises and innovative game development, Xbox Game Studios faces scrutiny over its strategic decisions and commitment to fostering diverse and creative gaming experiences.
