It’s been over six years since we first heard about the partnership between Xbox Game Studios and the developers of Hitman and 007 First Light at IO Interactive, so it’s understandable if you don’t remember it. Especially since we haven’t had any noteworthy information about Project Fantasy since its official announcement in 2023. That’s why today’s announcement shouldn’t surprise you.
IO Interactive reveals that Xbox Game Studios has ended its partnership with the Danish studio for Project Fantasy. This announcement essentially confirms that layoffs will occur very soon, but there’s also good news.
We are informed that this does not mean Project Fantasy is canceled. In fact, they state that it is “a game, a universe, and a franchise that we love and to which we remain 100% committed, today and in the future. This wonderful universe will see the light of day.” Does this mean IO already has another partner knocking on the door, or are they just trying to stay positive?
Those of you who closely follow the video game industry likely feared something like this would happen, as Xbox is expected to carry out thousands of layoffs and close several studios in the coming weeks and months. Reducing the number of partnerships will also be part of these cost-cutting measures.