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

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"We Need Smaller Games That Give Us Awards"

Story Highlights
  • Xbox Game Studios boss says they need more smaller games like Hi-Fi Rush to earn prestige and awards.
  • The statement comes right after the gaming giant shut down Tango Gameworks, the studio behind Hi-Fi Rush.
  • It has also been reported that Xbox was pitched a sequel to Hi-Fi Rush right before this decision.

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.

Hi-Fi Rush
Hi-Fi Rush is an excellent game that does something out of the box.

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.

Hi-Fi Rush
Tango Gameworks was considering a Hi-Fi Rush sequel before the studio closure.

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.

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