While Microsoft may have named a new leader of its Xbox gaming division this week, other members of that team got word on Wednesday they won"t be working at the company anymore. At least two now ex-employees have posted word online they were laid off from Microsoft Studios in Redmond.
One of the people affected by the changes was artist Patrick Loughman who posted word on his Twitter page his position was eliminated Wednesday:
A technical producer at Microsoft Studios, Elbert Perez, revealed he was laid off Wednesday, but used his Twitter message to promote a new game he is working on that"s seeking funding via Kickstarter:
Neowin has contacted Microsoft to see if they wish to offer an official comment on the layoffs, including just how many people were affected. This news comes just two days after the company announced that Phil Spencer, the previous leader of Microsoft Studios, had received a promotion to become the head of the entire Xbox division, which includes Microsoft Studios.
Update: It looks like Mr. Loughman has now deleted his original Twitter message but he still references his layoff from Microsoft in other Twitter posts.
Update 2: A Microsoft spokesperson has now sent Neowin a statement:
At Xbox, our goal is to constantly create new fun, social and interactive entertainment experiences. As part of our commitment to this goal, we are always evaluating our development priorities, and there are times when decisions need to be made to realign plans and refocus our efforts. Microsoft Studios continues to grow as an overall organization as we focus and invest in key priority areas that will drive future profitable growth. While we do not discuss personnel decisions, the team affected was small relative to the overall size of Microsoft Studios.
Source: Elbert Perez and Patrick Loughman on Twitter | Image via Microsoft