In a recent interview, Xbox Game Studios boss Matt Booty defended the decision to close Tango Gameworks as a future-oriented strategic move. This controversial decision has generated debate within the video game industry, but Booty maintains that it is a necessary step to consolidate and strengthen the Xbox portfolio in an increasingly competitive market.
The decision to close Tango Gameworks is part of a Microsoft’s broader plan to focus on high-impact titles and strengthen Bethesda’s most successful franchises, which is now part of Xbox Game Studios. This approach seeks to redirect resources towards games that have the greatest potential for success in the global market, allowing the company to double its investments in these key areas.
However, this strategy has been criticized by many in the developer community, who fear that the “one try” culture that seems to prevail on Xbox could stifle innovation and creativity. The main concern is that studios and developers could become risk-averse, opting instead for more conservative, safer approaches that ensure studio survival.
Despite this criticism, Booty and other leaders at Xbox Game Studios firmly believe that restructuring is crucial to the company’s future success. The consolidation will allow Xbox to focus on producing high-quality games that attract and maintain a loyal player base, helping the company compete more effectively with other industry giants such as Sony and Nintendo.
Ultimately, the closure of Tango Gameworks is a decision that reflects the need for adaptation and focus in a dynamic and competitive market. Although not without controversy, this move aims to position Xbox Game Studios for sustained long-term success, prioritizing titles with the greatest potential impact and consolidating resources into its most promising franchises.
