Arkane Lyon employees represented by the Syndicat des Travailleureuses du Jeu Vidéo (STJV) have accused Xbox of mismanaging the studio and creating conditions that could lead to its closure. The allegations include claims that the company effectively undermined the French developer while it worked on Marvel’s Blade.
According to the union members, a 19-month hiring freeze led to delays and increased production costs for the game. They also say the circumstances put pressure on Arkane Lyon at a time when its leaders are seeking a buyer and a way for the studio to continue operating.
The accusations come amid a broader Xbox effort to reduce costs and return to profitability, which the report says has involved layoffs, game cancellations and studio sales. Arkane Lyon is among the studios reportedly being put up for sale.
Union members argue that closing Arkane Lyon would cost more than completing Marvel’s Blade, and say Microsoft’s focus on maximising profits contributed to the studio’s current position. “Arkane is profitable. It’s simply not profitable enough for Microsoft,” the employees said, calling on the company to take full responsibility and act accordingly.
Sources: Eurogamer Portugal.