Xbox Plans Second Layoff Wave This Week, Blizzard and Halo Studios Expected to Be Hit

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 22, 2026

Microsoft's Xbox division is reportedly preparing a second major round of layoffs this week, following the 3,200 reductions announced in July. The cuts are expected to affect Blizzard and Halo Studios, with Bloomberg's Jason Schreier and other insiders citing imminent layoffs at both studios. The July wave already eliminated hundreds of roles at ZeniMax Online and id Software, and this round may include further studio consolidation or restructuring across Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, Activision, and Blizzard. Staffing agencies supporting gaming and tech talent should anticipate increased candidate availability in the sector.