Xbox Game Studios chief Craig Duncan resigns amid reports of major layoffs

Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, announced his departure after 18 months leading Microsoft's internal game studios. In the same internal email, he noted, "When I assumed the role of leading XGS 20 months ago, my purpose was to serve our studios, our teams and the people who create our games... I am proud to say we delivered many flawless launches that drove commercial success for the company." Louise O'Connor, head of talent for Xbox Game Studios, also announced she will leave the division. Duncan praised her as "a thoughtful, creative and trusted partner who consistently championed excellence and supported our studios with clarity and care. I thank her for all she contributed to XGS and wish her success in whatever she pursues next." Their exits come less than a week after Asha Sharma and Matt Booty announced a "reset" of Microsoft’s gaming division, which analysts have linked to an imminent wave of job cuts and project cancellations. No immediate successor has been named; content director Matt Booty will temporarily assume Duncan’s responsibilities. The departures follow broader restructuring efforts at Microsoft aimed at making the Xbox business more profitable.