Xbox Game Studios Faces More Uncertainty as Two Top Executives Exit

June 16, 2026 - 11:39

Two senior leaders at Xbox Game Studios are leaving the company, adding to a period of uncertainty for Microsoft's gaming division. Craig Duncan, head of the studio behind the "Forza" racing series, and Louise O'Connor, a veteran producer known for her work on the "Halo" franchise, are both stepping down after long tenures with the company.

Duncan had been with Microsoft for over a decade, overseeing the development of the critically acclaimed "Forza Horizon" series at Playground Games. O'Connor, a 20-year veteran, was a key figure at 343 Industries, the studio responsible for the "Halo" series. Their exits follow a pattern of high-level turnover at Xbox, which has seen several prominent figures leave in recent years.

The departures come at a time when Microsoft is under pressure to make its gaming business more profitable. The company spent nearly $69 billion to acquire Activision Blizzard, and executives have signaled a need to cut costs and streamline operations. Industry observers expect further layoffs and restructuring within Xbox Game Studios, though Microsoft has not confirmed any specific plans. The loss of Duncan and O'Connor, both respected for their creative leadership, raises questions about the direction of some of Xbox's biggest franchises.