World’s Edge Faces Major Layoffs Following MS’s Xbox Restructuring

Age of Empires studio World’s Edge reportedly lost nearly half of its workforce this week as part of MS’s latest round of job cuts.

The reductions are included in the 268 positions eliminated across the broader Xbox business. MS is expected to cut approximately 3,200 jobs during the current financial year.

Studio Reorganized Under Activision

MS announced on Monday that World’s Edge would move under Activision. Although the immediate effect on employees was initially unclear, staff members later reported on social media that almost 50% of the studio had been laid off and that its next project had been cancelled.

Former studio creative director Adam Isgreen, who spent 16 years at World’s Edge, expressed disappointment that his time with the company and the Age of Empires franchise had ended this way. He said that many talented colleagues were also affected despite the team having ambitious plans for its next project, adding that he hoped the remaining staff would eventually rise to the challenge.

Former senior software engineer Andrew Martz confirmed that the studio had been reorganized beneath the Activision umbrella. He said the restructuring resulted in the cancellation of its next project and layoffs affecting a substantial portion of the workforce, including himself.

Former lead principal software engineer Greg Snook said he unexpectedly received notice of his dismissal while on vacation. His final day with building access also coincided with the 25th anniversary of his hiring.

Uncertain Future for World’s Edge and Age of Empires

It remains unclear what lies ahead for World’s Edge under Activision or for the Age of Empires franchise more broadly. Although the studio supervised development of the real-time strategy series, it worked extensively with external partners. Relic Entertainment, for example, served as the primary developer of Age of Empires IV.

Age of Empires IV launched for PC in 2021 and was subsequently ported to Xbox and PlayStation consoles.

An eventual Age of Empires V may appear likely, but Activision’s oversight could result in the studio’s remaining employees being assigned to other projects. One possibility is a Halo strategy game, particularly now that Activision also oversees Xbox’s flagship shooter franchise, though no such project has been confirmed.

Age of Empires II Receives New DLC

Meanwhile, the Viking Sagas DLC for Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition launched on Tuesday. The expansion introduces three new civilizations, 15 additional single-player campaign scenarios, and further content.