Head of Xbox Game Studios Exits Ahead of Expected More Layoffs at Xbox

Key Takeaways

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Craig Duncan, the Head of Xbox Game Studios, is leaving Microsoft after less than two years in the role. Matt Booty will temporarily oversee until a successor is found.
Duncans departure precedes further layoffs at Xbox, including the closure of some studios, as announced by CEO Asha Sharma.
Louise OConnor, Duncans former colleague at Rare and Head of Xbox Game Studios Cabinet, is also leaving the company.
Both Duncan and OConnor have expressed pride in their contributions to Xboxs commercial success and organizational culture during their tenures.

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The Head of Xbox Game Studios, Craig Duncan, is the first confirmed departure in a new round of layoffs impacting the Xbox division this week. Duncan, who previously led Studio Rare, had held the position of Head of Xbox Game Studios for less than two years. He will leave Microsoft this week, and Matt Booty, the current Xbox content director, will temporarily oversee the Head of Studios role until a successor is appointed. Duncan’s departure precedes further layoffs at Xbox, which are expected to include the closure of some of the company’s studios. This decision was announced by CEO Asha Sharma in an email to employees last week, who cited the need to address a significant revenue decline in Xbox over recent years. In a farewell email, Duncan stated, “When I took the helm at XGS 20 months ago, my goal was to serve our studios, teams, and the people who create our games. Together, we set out to deliver high-quality games, strengthen our organizational culture in our studios, and help shape the company’s future.” He expressed pride in the “flawless launches” that contributed to the company’s commercial success.

Departure of Louise O’Connor from Xbox Game Studios Following Craig Duncan’s Lead, Bringing a Decade of Creativity and Leadership

Louise O’Connor, Duncan’s former colleague at Rare and Head of Xbox Game Studios Cabinet, will also be leaving the company. Duncan described O’Connor as a “thoughtful, creative, and reliable partner, who has always championed art and supported our studios with clarity and care.” He added, “I am grateful for everything she brought to XGS and am certain she will succeed in whatever she does next.” Craig Duncan became Head of Xbox Game Studios in October 2024, and Louise O’Connor joined as Xbox Game Studios Chief of Staff last year.

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