Wed, Feb 16, 2011 | 15:33 GMT
Microsoft confirms Rare staff cuts as part of reorganization
Amid rumors that staff cuts were set to happen at Rare, today, Microsoft has confirmed that a “small number of employees” at UK studio have been notified that their jobs are to be part of a reorganization process.
Per the official statement handed to Edge: “While redundancies are never easy, these organizational changes are part of Rare’s ongoing strategy and operational planning which typically coincides with the shipment of a title.
“We are working closely with the affected employees to support them through this transition and help them apply for other roles within Microsoft,” said a spokesperson.
According to other sources speaking with Edge, positions in Rare’s 42 person art department are currently at risk and that 19 staff will be let go, which is the maximum redundancies allowed under EU employment law unless Microsoft plans to provide full consultation.
Microsoft has declined to offer up a number of employees affected, stating: “Whilst we’re not discussing the exact numbers involved, I can assure you that it’s far fewer than you’ve indicated and represents a small percentage of the total Rare team.”
Another source claims Rare plans to become primarily staffed by contractors and temporary employees, according to Edge, with the Kinect Sports franchise possibly being shared with Joy Ride dveloper Big Park.
We previously asked Microsoft for comment on the rumors few days ago, and have yet to hear back from them. We’ll send another mail.
Thanks, Eurogamer.
10 comments
#1
Psychotext
16/02/11, 3:31 pm
“More to come.”
Probably.
#2
Khakimzhan
16/02/11, 3:40 pm
they need to merge rare with ruffian and lionhead… and stop f-ing with UK-based studios.
#3
Blerk
16/02/11, 3:40 pm
“Microsoft has confirmed that a “small number of employees” at UK studio have been notified that their jobs are to be part of a reorganization process.”
I love it when people say what they really mean.
Good luck to all at Rare. I might’ve been a little unkind to you in the past, but that doesn’t mean I wish you ill.
#4
gdogg979
16/02/11, 3:55 pm
this is a little sad.
Microsoft should building up there first party studios.
not cutting them down.
#5
orakaa
16/02/11, 4:02 pm
RARE used to be a very good studio, but let’s face it: since Microsoft bought them, they only made poor quality games…
It’s sad to see that now people are getting fired
#6
Blerk
16/02/11, 4:07 pm
To be honest, the sorts of games they were good at in the past generally don’t sell any more, especially at full price and on the Xbox.
I’d like to see them making more XBLA stuff. Give me a new Sabre Man game!
#7
Telepathic.Geometry
16/02/11, 4:45 pm
So this is the beginning of the end for Ultimate Play The Game? :^( /cries
#8
Michael O’Connor
16/02/11, 4:48 pm
Lets be fair, Rare has only been Rare in name only for some time now.
I never much cared for any of their games, but its always unfortunate to see people lose their jobs. Good luck to the people involved in getting new work.
#9
Hunam
16/02/11, 7:25 pm
Viva Pinata was a very Rare game. Most people just seem to overlook that game because it’s not a pew pew shooter.
#10
Gheritt White
21/02/11, 12:20 pm
They should’ve made probable money-spinners Killer Instinct 3 and Blast Corps 2 whilst they still had the chance…