Microsoft’s Restructuring Signals Shift Towards Digital-Only Gaming

Microsoft created waves in the gaming industry with their recent announcement of a major restructuring that will have far-reaching effects on their Xbox and Activision Blizzard departments. Nearly 10% of their gaming division, amounting to approximately 1,900 positions, will be eliminated as a result. The consequences of this restructuring have already been felt, as Mike Ybarra, the president of Blizzard, has resigned and the highly-anticipated game “Odyssey” has been cancelled.

Although the initial shock has subsided, new information reveals the specific departments hit hardest by these layoffs, and it spells trouble for gamers who cherish physical copies of their favorite titles. According to Windows Central journalist Jez Corden, two departments crucial for physical retail and customer service have essentially been “shut down.” Additionally, the job cuts have significantly impacted community managers.

What raises eyebrows is Microsoft’s decision to outsource customer support for Activision Blizzard’s games to external companies abroad. Historically, ABK has been lauded for its high-quality internal support team, leaving many wondering why this drastic change has been implemented. Furthermore, the closure of departments dedicated to physical retail suggests that Microsoft may have an eye on a digital-only future. Rumors of an all-digital Xbox console from last year only reinforce this notion.

While it’s essential to approach this information with caution, it is worth noting that Jez Corden has a reliable track record when it comes to reporting on Microsoft and Xbox news. Closing down the Xbox physical release department does not necessarily signify an immediate end to physical games, but the idea of outsourcing the work raises concerns about Microsoft’s long-term plans for physical copies. The recent trend of exclusive digital releases, such as “Hi-Fi Rush” and “Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II,” only adds fuel to the speculation.

Microsoft’s restructuring has ignited passionate debates within the gaming community. Some question the company’s underlying motives and whether they have lost sight of their original vision. Time will be the ultimate judge of how these changes will impact the gaming experience for Xbox players and the future of physical copies in the industry.

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The source of the article is from the blog reporterosdelsur.com.mx