Halo Infinite: 343's Statement Runs Against Deep Cuts in Halo Development Team
Halo developer 343 Industries says Master Chief and Cortana are staying under its roof, but reports of deep cuts to Halo's development staff calls into question the studio's ability to sustainably develop future Halo content.
This saga began last week, when we learned that the Halo studio was impacted by Microsoft's plans to lay off 10,000 people. Since the news broke, speculation has run rampant about Microsoft's plans for its flagship franchise, including rumors that Microsoft could pass Halo development to another studio entirely, leaving 343 Industries in more of a producer role. These rumors prompted 343 Industries to speak out over the weekend to put the rumblings to rest.
343 Industries' studio head Pierre Hintze shared a message on Halo's official Twitter account, writing, "Halo and Master Chief are here to stay. 343 Industries will continue to develop Halo now and in the future, including epic stories, multiplayer, and more of what makes Halo great."
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But for a studio that has struggled to meet Halo Infinite release dates multiple times, can the recently downsized 343 continue to handle development of a big-budget, AAA first-person shooter franchise? It's hard to say.
IGN reached out to Xbox's representatives, but did not receive comment ahead of publication.
IGN has learned that significant cuts have been made to 343's Halo development team. One former 343 employee impacted by the layoffs estimated about a quarter of 343's staff was impacted, although that's not a firm statistic. We've also learned that around 30 people were let go from 343's art department alone, with former employees saying 343 Industries was hit "hard with positions impacted across all disciplines."
Meanwhile, at least one
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