Dive into the latest gaming news from February 5-9, 2024. Keep up to date with the freshest game launches and key happenings shaping the world of gaming. Our summary delivers the must-know news and pivotal developments, focusing on the major progressions and movements within the gaming industry.
1,900 Jobs Cut at Microsoft Gaming Division Sparks Federal Controversy
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a complaint against Microsoft for planning to lay off 1,900 employees from its gaming division, arguing this contradicts promises of maintaining independence post-merger with Activision Blizzard. Despite FTC’s ongoing case against the merger, Microsoft proceeded after acquiring approval from the UK’s Competition and Market Authority.
The layoffs, described as part of an “execution plan” to eliminate overlap, have raised concerns about Microsoft’s commitment to operating Activision Blizzard independently, challenging previous assurances to the court and complicating FTC’s potential actions under antitrust laws.
Toys for Bob Faces Uncertain Future After Studio Closure
The recent closure of the Toys for Bob studio in Novato, California, raises questions about the company’s future. This event is part of broader layoffs affecting approximately 1,900 employees following Xbox’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Notably, 86 workers from Toys for Bob, known for developing Crash Bandicoot and Spyro, were laid off, alongside 76 from Call of Duty developer Sledgehammer Games. These layoffs come as part of Xbox’s restructuring after its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which also saw the departure of Blizzard’s former president and the cancellation of a survival game.
Spider-Man 2 PS5 Leaps Forward with New Game+ This March
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 for PS5 is set to receive a New Game+ option and additional features in March, enhancing player experience with new suits and gameplay improvements. Initially promised in 2023, the update’s release shifted to early 2024, now confirmed for March 7. Insomniac Games teased further enhancements, including time of day changes, symbiote power color swaps, mission replays, and possibly more, aiming to enrich the game’s replayability and customization options.
Fortnite to Welcome Disney Characters in a $1.5 Billion Epic Collaboration
Disney has infused a massive $1.5 billion into Epic Games, the powerhouse behind Fortnite. This ambitious venture aims to integrate Disney’s iconic brands—Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Avatar—into Fortnite.
While specifics of this new universe are still under wraps, the scale of Disney’s investment hints at a venture of significant magnitude and innovation. Epic Games may introduce a dedicated mode within Fortnite for this universe, drawing on previous collaborations, such as the survival game developed with Lego.
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That’s all the most exciting gaming news from February 5-9, 2024! Missed the gaming news last December? Click here for the gaming updates from January 29 – February 2, 2023.
