Microsoft lays off 1900 staff 

Microsoft has laid off 1,900 employees at Activision Blizzard and Xbox this week. While Microsoft is primarily laying off roles at Activision Blizzard, some Xbox and ZeniMax employees will also be impacted by the cuts.

The company noted that the latest cuts in the technology sector have extended massive layoffs over the past years into 2024.

The cuts represent about eight per cent of the overall Microsoft Gaming division and will mostly happen at Activision Blizzard.

Blizzard President, Mike Ybarra, who is also affected by the cuts, said on his X account that, “I want to thank everyone who is impacted today for their meaningful contributions to their teams, to Blizzard, and players’ lives. It’s an incredibly hard day and my energy and support will be focused on all those amazing individuals impacted – this is in no way a reflection on your amazing work. If there’s anything I can help with, connections, recommendations, etc., DM me.

“To the Blizzard community: I also want to let you all know today is my last day at Blizzard. Leading Blizzard through an incredible time and being part of the team, shaping it for the future ahead, was an absolute honour. Having already spent 20+ years at Microsoft and with the acquisition of Activision Blizzard behind us, it’s time for me to (once again) become Blizzard’s biggest fan from the outside.”

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This layoff came months after the company closed its $69 billion deal for Activision Blizzard, boosting its heft in the video gaming market with best-selling titles, including “Call of Duty”.

Communications Workers of America said, “Microsoft’s announcement that it will be laying off 1,900 video game workers makes clear that, even when you work at a successful company in an extremely profitable industry, your livelihood is not protected without a voice on the job.

“We will continue to support workers at Microsoft and across the video game industry who want to have a union voice on the job.”

Punch/Chidimma Gold