Arkane Studios' future uncertain as Xbox restructuring raises sale talks

Microsoft’s Xbox division announced a sweeping restructuring that includes 3,200 layoffs and the divestiture of four studios. Arkane Lyon, the French studio behind titles such as Dishonored and the upcoming Marvel's Blade, entered a mandatory consultation process with its Works Council under French labor law. The company said the studio’s future could involve a sale, an independent spin‑out or shutdown, but no final decision has been made.

Former founder Raphael Colantonio reacted on social media with a joking reply to Xbox CEO Asha Sharma’s announcement, asking “how much? I’m asking for a friend.” The comment generated a wave of fan support and speculation about a possible buy‑out by the founder, though it was not presented as a formal offer.

Marvel’s Blade is reported to be behind schedule and over budget, but Microsoft confirmed the game has not been cancelled. The ongoing uncertainty around Arkane’s ownership and the French consultation process means the title’s release timeline remains open, while the studio’s staff await the outcome of the restructuring.