Featuring significant exits at Rare and ZeniMax Online Studios
The unfortunate update regarding today’s Xbox layoffs is not finished yet, as some prominent figures at various Xbox studios are reportedly resigning from their roles – either coincidentally or due to what we’ve been hearing throughout the afternoon.
To begin with, Zenimax Online Studios president Matt Frior is leaving after 18 years at the helm of the company. Frior didn’t specify a reason in his statement today, but an undisclosed MMORPG at the studio was scrapped just a few hours ago.
“After more than 18 years guiding ZeniMax Online Studios, I will be stepping back later this month. The Studio and The Elder Scrolls Online will be in excellent hands under the leadership of new Studio Head, Jo Burba, along with Executive Producer, Susan Kath, and Game Director, Rich Lambert. This leadership team has driven many of ESO’s largest concepts and expansions and will continue to make this game something we’re all proud of. While I won’t be engaged in the game any longer, I will be rooting for you and adding to the countless hours I’ve already spent in-game.”
Additionally, VGC is reporting through “sources” that two of the most pivotal individuals at Rare are departing from that studio, namely Gregg Mayles and Louise O’Connor. Mayles has been with Rare for over 35 years and played a significant role in steering Donkey Kong Country and Banjo-Kazooie, while more recently he collaborated on Sea Of Thieves and Everwild.
In the meantime, Louise O’Connor served as the executive producer of Everwild and has contributed to titles such as Conker’s Bad Fur Day, Viva Pinata, Kameo: Elements of Power, among others.
These exits appear to be linked to the cancellation of Everwild, which was confirmed earlier today.
There’s a possibility we could learn of additional industry veterans departing various Xbox studios in the upcoming hours and days, but let’s hope that’s not the case, shall we? As always, we extend our best wishes to all those impacted by today’s news.
[source x.com, via videogameschronicle.com]
Fraser serves as the News Editor at Pure Xbox, where he dedicates his time to covering the most significant stories in the realm of Xbox and beyond.
