Microsoft's Decision Results in 1,900 Job Cuts from Video Game Team

Is it real that microsoft is cutting 1,900 staff from its video game workforce ?

In a message to staff viewed by IGN, Xbox boss Phil Spencer said Microsoft will provide “full support to those who are impacted during the transition".

The layoffs come following the $69 billion acquisition of Call of Duty owner Activision Blizzard and the exit of its controversial former boss Bobby Kotick.

Here’s Spencer’s memo in full: "It’s been a little over three months since the Activision, Blizzard, and King teams joined Microsoft. "

"Together, we’ve set priorities, identified areas of overlap, and ensured that we’re all aligned on the best opportunities for growth. "

"we have made the painful decision to reduce the size of our gaming workforce by approximately 1,900 roles out of the 22,000 people on our team. "

"To all of those impacted today - I am always available to you and understand how challenging today’s news is. My heart is with each one of you."

As part of the layoffs, Blizzard Entertainment President Mike Ybarra announced he is leaving the company. Ybarra, a former Xbox executive, joined Blizzard in 2019.

A source told IGN that Microsoft's gaming teams had already suffered significant cuts to marketing budgets before staff were told of the layoffs.