In a rather unexpected turn of events, it looks like Microsoft is plugging the plug on their development studios in the UK and Denmark. Press Play Studios will be closing in the very near future, Lionhead Studios is also looking to be shut down, as well as the decision to cease development on the upcoming action RPG, Fable Legends, which has been in development for quite some time as well as having several closed betas.
These have been tough decisions and we have not made them lightly, nor are they a reflection on these development teams – we are incredibly fortunate to have the talent, creativity and commitment of the people at these studios. The Lionhead Studios team has delighted millions of fans with the Fable series over the past decade. Press Play imbued the industry with a unique creative spirit behind games like Max: The Curse of Brotherhood and Kalimba, which both captured passionate fans. These changes are taking effect as Microsoft Studios continues to focus its investment and development on the games and franchises that fans find most exciting and want to play.
No reasons have been cited in regards to the closing of either studio as of yet. Definitely bad news for the people at both studios and we here at The Outerhaven hope they land on their feet and can get back to doing what they enjoy.
Shame, I was looking forward to this.
Source: Xbox.com