The recent wave of layoffs at Microsoft, as reported by IGN, has impacted various Call of Duty (CoD) studios, leaving industry veterans grappling with sudden changes. Microsoft's decision to cut 1,900 jobs, accounting for around eight or nine percent of their workforce, has had profound repercussions on renowned studios such as Treyarch, Raven Software, Sledgehammer Games, and High Moon Studios. 

Microsoft’s Gaming Layoffs Affects Multiple Studios 

This seismic event comes merely four months after Microsoft's colossal $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a move that was anticipated to foster a culture of empowerment within the company, as emphasized by Xbox boss Phil Spencer. However, the reality appears starkly different as Spencer now conveys his condolences for what he terms a "painful decision." 

The aftermath is palpable across multiple CoD studios. Sledgehammer Games, the driving force behind Modern Warfare 3 and actively engaged in ongoing live content development, faces a significant setback. The studio's multiplayer senior QA lead took to social media to reveal the extent of the impact, stating that he had "lost basically my entire team." 

Raven Software, responsible for the ever-popular Warzone, experiences its share of losses despite the recent mid-season update. A former associate community manager expressed disappointment, saying, "Well unfortunately I’ve been laid off," highlighting the commitment to prioritizing the community's voices. 

Amidst rumors surrounding CoD 2024 being a Treyarch-developed Black Ops series entry set in the Gulf War, the studio finds itself navigating through unexpected turbulence. Even in the midst of active game development, Treyarch witnessed cuts, with a former games and system designer expressing gratitude for the time spent on the project. 

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Popular COD insider CharlieIntel suggests that almost every CoD studio has been affected, raising concerns about the future of one of the gaming industry's most iconic franchises. These developments unfold just a day after Riot Games and various other publishers announced employee layoffs, signifying a broader trend that is reshaping the gaming landscape as we step further into 2024. The repercussions of these layoffs extend beyond corporate boardrooms, leaving an indelible mark on the dedicated developers and the loyal Call of Duty community alike.