Microsoft Xbox faces studio closures and a buy‑now‑pay‑later rollout

Microsoft announced cost‑cutting measures in its Xbox division, triggering fears that several first‑party studios could be shut down. Reports indicate that Compulsion Games, Double Fine and possibly Ninja Theory are under threat, with negotiations ongoing to save the studios. Employees at the affected studios have been informed and are exploring new job opportunities.

Separately, a dataminer uncovered a backend feature that would allow Xbox Store customers to purchase hardware and games using a "buy now, pay later" model. The option appears to involve payment platforms PayPal and Klarna, offering installment plans without interest. Xbox has not confirmed the feature, and details about its scope remain unclear.