Key Takeaways
Created with AI - we're still experimenting, so apologies if it misses the mark
- Forza Motorsport series is temporarily paused, not cancelled.
- Microsoft is prioritizing projects that are closer to completion and giving development teams sufficient time to create high-quality games.
- The shift in focus for Xbox Game Studios includes a commitment to supporting multiple games and a flexible structure to avoid overburdening teams.
- The Halo Studio is embracing new technologies like Unreal Engine 5, reinvesting in the Halo franchise, and working on the next major title.
Forza Motorsport Takes a Break, Series Not Canceled – Spencer on Prioritizing Projects and Future Developments
In a recent interview with Famitsu, Phil Spencer confirmed that the Forza Motorsport series is taking a break. This news follows staff reductions at Turn 10 Studios, the game’s developer, where approximately 70 employees were affected by Microsoft’s recent cuts. Spencer reassured fans that the series is not over, explaining that Microsoft has multiple studios developing games and must sometimes prioritize projects that are closer to completion. He emphasized the importance of giving teams sufficient time to fully develop their games, especially given that the last Forza Motorsport game—which was six years in development—was not as well-received by fans. Meanwhile, the Forza Horizon series remains successful, with a new installment set in Japan scheduled for release next year. Spencer also addressed the situation at Halo Studios, stating that they are looking ahead and embracing new challenges. The studio is fully invested in Unreal Engine 5 and other new technologies. This investment will allow their teams adequate time to reinvest in the Halo franchise and develop the next major title.
Forza Motorsport Pause Signals Xbox Game Studios’ Shift in Focus and Commitment to Supporting Multiple Games
According to Spencer, the decision to put Forza Motorsport on hold reflects a broader strategy of shifting focus to games that are closer to launch. While acknowledging concerns about the staff reductions at Turn 10 Studios, he stressed that Microsoft is committed to supporting its numerous games and has established a flexible structure to avoid overburdening teams. With over 20 studios, Xbox Game Studios is currently developing a wide range of titles, each with different requirements. The company is considering short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategies to ensure the success of its games, so players can anticipate a steady stream of Xbox titles in the future.
In Case You Missed It
While we’re chatting about gaming milestones, why not dive into Bruno Pferd’s latest articles over at Players For Life? Last month, he explored an intriguing claim in “Forza Horizon 5 Reportedly Sold 2 Million Copies on PS5 in One Month,” where a former Turn 10 Studios developer suggests the game sold two million units in its first month on PlayStation 5. Then, amidst recent industry turmoil, Bruno shared promising news for Xbox fans in his latest piece, “Xbox: This Legendary Developer’s Exclusive Saved Amidst Chaos.” He assures us that Kojima Productions’ OD, a sequel to Death Stranding slated for Xbox, remains in development despite layoffs affecting several studios. And if you’re looking back at this year’s gaming events, don’t miss Marcus Thompson’s comprehensive rundown on the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025, published just last week! He delves deep into updates from major titles like Forza, Ninja Gaiden 4, and Age of Mythology, all set against Japan’s rich cultural tapestry. So head over to Players For Life for all these exciting reads: “Forza Horizon 5 Reportedly Sold 2 Million Copies on PS5 in One Month” Forza Horizon 5 Reportedly Sold 2 Million Copies on PS5 in One Month, “Xbox: This Legendary Developer’s Exclusive Saved Amidst Chaos” Xbox: This Legendary Developer’s Exclusive Saved Amidst Chaos, and “Forza in Japan and More Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 Broadcast” Forza in Japan and More: Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 Broadcast. Enjoy your gaming news feast!