Xbox Shut Down Hi-Fi Rush Studio Then Said It Needs More Small Games

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Abdullah Waseem

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Microsoft did the unthinkable recently after closing Tango Gameworks, the studio that released its biggest hit last year. However, after shutting the studio, Microsoft suggests that it needs more games like Hi-Fi Rush for ‘awards and prestige.’

Why it matters: Hi-Fi Rush led the charge last year in Xbox’s lineup. It was the unexpected title that contributed to a solid 2023 for the company, and statements like these fail to acknowledge its contributions.

Matt Booty, the Xbox Game Studios Head, recently held a meeting where he told the employees that they need more smaller games. This statement seems to be quite tone-deaf after its recent decision.

We need smaller games that give us prestige and awards.

-Matt Booty

Hi-Fi Rush was a major breakthrough for Tango Gameworks. According to reports, a sequel was pitched to Microsoft right before the studio was shut down, making this statement even more surprising.

Last year, the game garnered praise for its creativity and charm. It also went on to win plenty of awards, presumably filling the role that Matt Booty wants from future Xbox Game Studios titles.

According to the report, Matt Booty’s statement was just as shocking for Xbox employees. However, it seems the upper management at Microsoft is unable to see the irony in its own actions.

Reports state that Arkane Austin was looking to pitch a similar project before it was shut down. The developer hoped to return to its immersive-sim roots, but Xbox seemed to have other plans.

We expect more details from Microsoft on the matter next month as Phil Spencer is set to conduct various interviews following the Xbox Games Showcase.

Abdullah Waseem

News Reporter

Abdullah is an avid gamer who primarily plays single-player titles. If you can’t find him anywhere, he’ll probably be at his desk playing The Witcher 3 for the millionth time. When he isn’t playing games, he’s either reading or writing about them.