The latest investigation from Microsoft show that the technology giant is preparing to enter a new layoff process. The company is expected to take a step next week that will affect less than 2.5 percent of its total workforce.

Microsoft, which currently employs around 228 thousand employees, plans to make significant changes in its organizational structure with this new decision. This process, which particularly concerns the gaming world, indicates that operations on the Xbox side will be restructured.

Big change expected in Xbox studios

Incoming information reveals that Microsoft is considering the closure of at least five different studios operating under the Xbox umbrella. In this context, it is among theses that the Marvel’s Blade project, which is in the development phase, may be canceled and Arkane Studios, which developed the game, will be closed.

The complaint in question are not limited to Arkane Studios. The company is also expected to make important decisions for studios such as Undead Labs, Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games and Double Fine Productions.

Microsoft’s employment policy from past to present

Microsoft entered a major downsizing process last year by parting ways with approximately 20 thousand employees. The company management may be aiming to increase the efficiency in the gaming unit with these new attacks.

This possible wave of layoffs, which has a wide repercussion in the technology world, also raises questions about the future of the studios in the gaming division. Microsoft’s official statements next week will clarify how much of these reflect reality.

What do you think about this major change in the industry?