Ensemble Studios, owned and operated by Microsoft or, Microsoft Games Studios, has been targed to be dissolved. All employees will find new homes, a large quantity will start a new studio and continue maintaining the later released Halo Wars franchise.
Microsoft has chosen to close the studio as part of their growth plan of Microsoft Games Studios much like FASA was closed in the past. The difference, there is a new landing point for Halo Wars unlike the uncertain future of Shadowrun.
Commenting on the reason for the closure, Microsoft said, “This was a fiscally rooted decision that keeps MGS on its growth path. While the decision to dissolve Ensemble was not an easy one, Microsoft is working to place as many Ensemble employees who do not move to the newly formed studio into open positions within Microsoft as possible.” (gamespot)
Ensemble Studio’s folks will continue to work with Microsoft and will continue to support Halo Wars after its launch. It is important to stress their statement of continuing to support Halo Wars, there is no need to think the project will be done half-assed or without pride as the project will live on with a different studio name.
The only question is… what is causing Microsoft to close down studios with actively working real franchise projects? FASA went down, Bungie was let go on their own and now Ensemble Studios? There has to be something going on here… idea?
Hi guys.
Sorry for not commenting the last few episodes, but much trouble going on in real life, did noit find enough time to listen and enjoy your podcast 🙁
I played a lot of Magic the Gathering becuase its short and i could play it on my own. Besides i played some WoW Classic WOTLK. And some time i spent with Life is strange true colors (still did not finish it)
Dorfromantik: I told you its addictive .. i love it as well 🙂 Its easy to calm down and play a round, easy listening smooth music … and you dont get anrgy if it ends .. you dont “loose” or get killed or stuff like that.
Krypto Stuff: i will not miss if if it would be gone. I am still not into it and i dont think i will be the next time … so … i dont care 😀
Demon Souls / Dark Souls: OMG … this games freaked me out … i tried them so often but they are so damn hard … did not finish any (besides Bloodbourne if this counts).
System Shock / Bio Shock: never played System Shock and only some hours of BioShock 1…
So long .. stay healthy guys and thanks for your effort you put in any episode <3
Greetings,
Ralf