Microsoft has been unable to find a buyer for Ninja Theory, studio to close

Earlier this summer, Xbox announced plans to close or divest several of its studios as part of a wider restructuring effort. A few months on, Microsoft has now provided an update on where each team has landed — and unfortunately, Ninja Theory has not been able to secure independence or a buyer, meaning the studio behind Hellblade is now facing closure.

In a new post titled “continuing the reset”, Microsoft confirmed that both Compulsion Games and Double Fine successfully transitioned to independent studios in August, retaining their IP, back catalogues and runway funding. Undead Labs has also completed its move, and with a new publisher in place, State of Decay 3 will still launch day one on Game Pass. However, Ninja Theory’s situation has not resolved positively. After exploring two separate buyout agreements, both deals fell through, and Microsoft says it will now begin consultation with employees on a proposed closure while continuing to explore any remaining options.

Ninja Theory had been attempting to go independent following the restructuring announcement, even revealing its next project, Senua, at the Xbox Games Showcase earlier this year — a trailer that, according to reporting at the time, was shown primarily to attract investor interest during buyout negotiations. With no deal secured, the studio will now shut down unless an alternative path emerges during consultation.

Microsoft also noted that Arkane remains in ongoing consultation, with discussions expected to continue through the end of the year.

KitGuru Says: Ninja Theory also had a very highly regarded mo-cap team in place, something that could help out many AAA studios, so it is a little surprising to see that no deal came together here. 

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