Xbox Layoffs Impact Accessibility Team

As part of the 1,600 people being let go by Xbox during its big reset on July 6, it appears that the company's Accessibility division has been hit pretty heavily as well.

During the recent layoffs at Xbox, the Accessibility division also faced significant impacts. A senior user researcher at ZeniMax Media mentioned on a now-deleted post that the accessibility staff, including members of the Bethesda User Research Team, were affected. Zach Clothier, the accessibility test lead for Microsoft's gaming accessibility testing service, announced his departure after almost three years. While the exact number of those affected is unclear, the team seems to have been greatly reduced. This restructuring coincides with Disability Pride Month, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in gaming.

Despite the changes, Microsoft assured that accessibility remains a top priority for Xbox. The company is committed to enhancing gaming accessibility for all players, emphasizing the importance of their work. The Xbox Accessibility Team has been instrumental in developing features like the Adaptive Controller and accessibility options in games such as Forza Horizon 6, ensuring a more inclusive gaming experience.