Microsoft Knew About Ninja Theory Closure Before Senua Announcement

Earlier this week, it was reported that Microsoft was planning to close , or spin out, Compulsion Games, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and potential other studios as part of a round of layoffs and studio closures.

Reports indicate that Microsoft had already planned to close Ninja Theory before the studio announced its new game, Senua, during the Xbox Games Showcase. The decision was made even before the debut of Senua's trailer, with the intention of attracting investor interest. It is uncertain if the leadership team at Ninja Theory was aware of this plan.

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma's recent memo highlighted the need for a 'reset' due to declining revenue despite significant investments. Following this, Xbox Game Studios boss Craig Duncan resigned. While discussions are ongoing for potential buyouts of Ninja Theory, Double Fine, and Compulsion, these studios may require additional investment to become independent.

There are concerns about whether Ninja Theory would retain the rights to the Hellblade franchise post-closure, similar to the situation with Lionhead and the Fable series. Microsoft seems inclined towards finding investors to acquire the studios rather than shutting them down completely, but the future remains uncertain.