"Microsoft Layoffs: Impact on Xbox, Blizzard, and Seattle Workforces"

Microsoft has reportedly shut down departments dedicated to bringing physical Xbox games to retail as part of mass layoffs, leading to speculation about the company's future in physical game distribution. While it's not confirmed that Microsoft is quitting physical retail for Xbox games, the industry seems to be favoring a digital-only approach. Limited Run, a physical games publisher, has expressed its commitment to supporting Xbox physical releases whenever possible, but noted that the majority of Xbox gamers are digital-first. Additionally, there are reports of layoffs affecting internal customer support teams for Activision Blizzard games and significant staff reductions at Sledgehammer Games.