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As beloved Dishonored studio faces closure, Xbox agrees union request to extend negotiations deadline in hope of saving 217 jobs
Microsoft has extended Arkane Lyon’s consultation deadline from 13 November to December while it explores options for the studio, including finding a buyer or partner. The extension gives more time to seek a way to keep the developer operating, but its future remains uncertain and closure could put 217 jobs at risk.
Arkane Lyon, known for Dishonored and Deathloop, is working on Marvel’s Blade. Microsoft says the extension is part of the consultation process and that closure plans in government documents do not amount to a final decision. Unions say the game is almost complete, while a report citing a source says it may still be years from release; the studio’s leadership was reportedly told of the intended closure in July.
In short
- Xbox extended Arkane Lyon’s consultation period to December.
- A buyer or partner could help avert closure.
- 217 jobs are at risk if no solution is found.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Extending the consultation gives Microsoft and staff more time to find a buyer, partner or other plan that could keep Arkane Lyon operating and protect 217 jobs. Given the studio’s record and ongoing work on Marvel’s Blade, supporters could argue that exploring alternatives before closure is a responsible way to preserve expertise and give the project a chance to continue.
The case against
A longer consultation may delay difficult decisions without changing the studio’s underlying prospects, particularly if no viable buyer or business plan emerges. Microsoft could argue that it must weigh the costs and risks of keeping the studio open, and that claims the game is nearly complete are disputed by reports suggesting it may still be years from release.
Explained simply
Arkane Lyon is a video game studio in France, best known for making Dishonored and Deathloop. It is part of Microsoft’s Xbox division, which owns several game developers and publishers.
The studio is developing Marvel’s Blade, based on the comic-book character. Microsoft is consulting staff and unions about the studio’s future; a possible closure could affect 217 jobs. The consultation process gives the parties time to discuss options, including whether another company might take on the studio.