Microsoft Issues Statement on Potential Layoffs After Major Xbox Leadership Changes

After Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond announced they were leaving their leadership positions at Xbox, Microsoft Gaming leader Matt Booty released a statement assuring everyone that there are currently no plans for further changes within the game studios Xbox owns. Recent layoffs at Microsoft and Xbox, combined with shifts in top management, have caused concern about more changes happening throughout the company. Matt Booty aimed to ease those worries by clearly outlining his vision for Xbox’s future, alongside a statement from the new CEO, Asha Sharma, about her plans for Microsoft Gaming.

Recently, several prominent figures in the gaming world have left major roles to pursue personal projects, start new companies, or spend more time with family. The news that both Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond are leaving Xbox came as a surprise to many. Spencer, who has been the public face of Xbox for years, is following a path similar to Reggie Fils-Aime of Nintendo, stepping down from a company he’s closely linked to. Microsoft’s gaming division has faced criticism recently due to layoffs and a perceived move away from Xbox consoles. While some are worried about Xbox’s future without Spencer and Bond, current leaders appear confident.

Xbox Executive Shake-ups Will Not Include Major Layoffs, For Now

Microsoft leaders, including Satya Nadella, Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond, Asha Sharma, and Matt Booty, recently shared their thoughts on the direction of Xbox and Microsoft Gaming in an official blog post. They all congratulated Asha Sharma on becoming the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming. Sharma outlined her three main priorities: delivering excellent games, revitalizing the Xbox platform, and shaping the future of gaming. Matt Booty, now serving as Chief Content Officer, expressed strong support for Sharma’s leadership. While acknowledging ongoing challenges, Booty assured fans that there are currently no plans for restructuring within Xbox game studios.

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Even though Microsoft executives like Matt Booty and Asha Sharma are optimistic, many gamers and industry professionals are still concerned about Xbox’s direction. Layoffs, studio closures, and canceled games aren’t unique to Microsoft – Sony recently closed Bluepoint Games, for example – but Microsoft has been particularly affected, announcing multiple rounds of layoffs since 2023, closing well-known studios like Tango Gameworks, and making statements that have left some fans worried about the future of Xbox.

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When gaming companies make big changes to their leadership teams, the reactions are always varied – some people are excited, while others are disappointed. Right now, Xbox fans seem cautiously optimistic. Many are relieved that Matt Booty addressed concerns about potential job cuts, and they’re enthusiastic about Asha Sharma’s dedication to improving Xbox. Whether the new leaders at Xbox and Microsoft Gaming can continue the success of the previous team remains to be seen, but fans can stay tuned for further news about the future of Xbox and the wider gaming world.

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2026-02-21 23:08